News

2025-2026 School Year Budget Survey

The Limestone District School Board wants your feedback on our 2025-2026 school year budget. We invite families, students, staff, and community members to <a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9potyOAOh3kqx708Pa4jh9%2FTV2llUDmWjnE%3D" class="editor-link">take a short survey</a> to share what is important to you.  Your feedback will help the Board of Trustees make decisions to best serve students' needs in 2025-2026. Please take a few minutes to <a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9potyOAOh3kqx708Pa4jh9%2FTV2llUDmWjnE%3D" class="editor-link">fill out the online survey</a>. It is open until March 21, 2025. The survey is voluntary and anonymous, and all responses are confidential.                 <a href="https://ca1.voxco.com/S2/?st=fu443Fws9potyOAOh3kqx708Pa4jh9%2FTV2llUDmWjnE%3D" class="editor-link">Access the 2025-2026 School Year Budget Survey</a> You can view the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/budget___financial_statements" class="editor-link">current school year budget, which will help us plan for 2025-2026, on our website.</a>

2025-02-27 14:35:21.515 +0000 UTC

Service Update for Stock Riders

Dear Families,We want to inform you that the parties have reached a tentative agreement and transportation services will be running as usual on Monday. All routes, including those operated by Stock Transportation, will run as planned next week, subject to regular cancellations/delays (i.e., due to weather).Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,Limestone District School Board

2025-02-21 20:47:53.24 +0000 UTC

Free Webinar: EQAO Math Night for Parents and Guardians

<img src="/images/cac31f84-ce64-4078-9f41-ef47ae1a2222?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) logo" width="286" height="160" style="width:286px;height:160px;float:right">The Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) is hosting a free webinar on April 1, 2025, at 12:00 p.m.. EQAO staff will discuss math questions that Ontario students encounter when they participate in Ontario’s large-scale assessments. These assessments are taken by all Ontario students in Grades 3, 6 and 9. During the webinar, EQAO staff will show how these math questions help assess the skills students are learning in their math classes. Staff will also share valuable insights from the past three years of assessment results, which can help parents and guardians support their children’s math learning. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Register online</h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">April 1, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Feqao.zoom.us%2Fwebinar%2Fregister%2FWN_5puRqI8uQJypIaHgBYoBMw%23%2Fregistration&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C368f0eef0faf45d08cc308dd5b1d3dc2%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638766903326827133%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=tVxqGRbK%2FFUcZSdZB5XFwB0h6Uj8j0jFpg1YZqsrhhI%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Webinar Registration - Zoom</a></li></ul>If families are unable to make the webinar, the EQAO Office has provided <a href="https://eqao.zoom.us/rec/share/s7vcbVkr0M41Yu5DeWrsF8_AeYNI47mYM0jSmJqczsZAUx-BiSsjnyIrMel_G3oT.X8IP6PcQxFMTGsvW" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">a recording of a previous session</a> to view.

2025-02-21 15:41:32.58 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs February 19, 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 February 19, 2025 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">Board Meetings</a>.  All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe 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.” <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Operational Plan: Literacy, a Focus on Writing Presentation</h2>Further to Associate Superintendent Sartor's update to Trustees on the Literacy Operational Plan, the presentation focused on writing. Along with Associate Superintendent Sartor, Erika Chesnick, the board's Elementary Literary Consultant, and Jo Ferguson, Elementary Literacy and K-12 Empower Lead, highlighted some of the work underway across the district.Sartor stated that data drives decision making and instruction in schools, and shared some data that compelled the program team to focus on writing. This involved EQAO data, report card data and qualitative or survey data.Two important writing initiatives were launched this year to support professional learning. Ms. Ferguson explained that The Writing Revolution (TWR) is an approach to teaching writing that begins at the sentence level and grows to compositions. TWR's evidence-based strategies ensure that all students at all levels can produce clear, coherent, unified, and structured writing. Armed with those strategies, students become better readers, communicators and most importantly, critical thinkers. This approach to teaching writing focuses on the Hochman Method, which builds from sentences to compositions and is embedded in curriculum across all content areas and grade levels. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">The Writing Revolution Journey in LDSB</h3>Between fall of 2023 and spring of 2025, over 200 Limestone educators have participated in TWR professional development, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Every Learning Partner who works alongside educators in K-8 classrooms </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Every elementary MLL teacher </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Half of our secondary MLL teachers </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Some secondary de-streamed English teachers</li></ul>At least one educator from nearly every site has participated, with the majority of sites having multiple educators across divisions.Ms. Chesnick provided an overview of the Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) model, which combines instructional strategies with a means to self-regulate (Harris, 1982). The goal of SRSD is to teach the strategies that students need in order to write, while supporting them to be motivated. Its instructional framework is designed to improve students' writing skills by explicitly teaching them both writing strategies and self-regulation skills. SRSD has been widely studied and shown to be effective for all students, especially those who struggle with writing and students with learning disabilities.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/331f3f21-7510-47bf-bd86-95a041e9133a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013501" alt="Image of X/Twitter post from educator explaining the professional learning they are engaged in." width="377" height="281" style="width:377px;height:281px;float:right">What is thinkSRSD?</h4>thinkSRSD is a brand and educational resource that applies the Self-Regulated Strategy Development model to help students improve their writing skills.thinkSRSD translates research to practice, focusing on providing educators with tools, strategies and support to implement SRSD effectively in the classroom.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">The thinkSRSD Journey in LDSB</h3><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Fall 2024: 30 Grade 4-6 classroom teachers, 7 Learning Partners, and some central curriculum staff participated in a one-day training session with Dr. Leslie Laud (co-founder of thinkSRSD).</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The group will come together for two additional full-day sessions run by Elementary Literacy Consultant, E. Chesnick</li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Winter 2025: Winston Churchill Public School is working with E. Chesnick to implement this approach whole-school (K-6)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Ongoing: Learning Partners supporting educators across the system as they implement thinkSRSD into their classroom practice.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Spring 2025: E. Chesnick will be sharing Limestone's thinkSRSD journey at the April 2025 International Dyslexia Association Conference: The Literacy & Learning Conference.</li></ul>Teachers in the pilot who are really digging into the work are reporting positive growth and gains in their students. They report that student independence is increasing, their motivation to write is growing, and that the writing itself is showing improvement. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Next Steps:</h3><img src="/images/b0fc0a45-4847-4450-a473-30dddce8aa16?fingerprint=ppb20251217014637" alt="Image of four icons representing next steps in LDSB's journey of writing programs" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h2>Vice-Chair Bob Godkin provided the Private Session Reports for January 15, 2025 and February 19, 2025. At the conclusion of the Board Meeting of January 15, 2025, trustees adjourned into Private Session where Director Burra provided a personnel update. There was no other business conducted, or motions passed. Regarding the Rise and Report from Private Session of February 19, 2025, Vice-Chair Godkin indicated that earlier in the evening during Private Session:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The private session minutes were approved from the EPOC of February 5, 2025</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Superintendent Gilliam provided a safe schools update.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Superintendent Young provided a legal update as well as a labour update.</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Director Burra gave a personnel update.</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session on February 19, 2025.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Chair's Report</h2><img src="/images/dea058a1-e5d6-46f9-a75e-2526a81dc7b3?fingerprint=ppb20251217015036" alt="A photo of Chair Robin Hutcheon " width="290" height="375" style="width:290px;height:375px;float:right">Chair Robin Hutcheon provided the following report:"Good evening and welcome everyone. We are very soon entering everyone’s favourite time – budget season. The Limestone District School Board will be seeking feedback on the development of next year’s school budget through our regular annual survey that will soon be shared with families, students, staff, and community partners. This feedback helps us to identify priorities for the use of LDSB’s finite financial resources. This information is invaluable in assisting Trustees throughout the budgeting process to ensure students’ needs are best served in 2025-2026; and for that I say ‘Thank you’ to everyone who is able to provide it. If anyone is not able to get to the survey, please feel free to contact your local trustee to articulate where you feel our budget priorities should be. Family and community feedback is our most important input to developing and approving the annual budget. Coming up, the 2025 Limestone Skills Competition will be held at St. Lawrence College, Bayridge Secondary School and Napanee District Secondary School next Wednesday and Thursday. This is the 25th anniversary of this event, which has grown significantly the last few years by now offering students in Grades 4 to 12 an opportunity to challenge themselves and demonstrate their interest and talents in the skilled trades and robotics. I extend my best wishes to all participating students, and extend sincere appreciation to staff advisors, and industry coaches, for their support of students in their pursuit of excellence.Two reminders for families: First; Limestone Families are invited to Kids and Screens: Healthy Habits - An Evening with Dr. Shimi Kang, at Queen’s University on March 4. Dr Kang is the author of The Tech Solution: Creating Healthy Habits for a Digital World and is providing a free, one-hour keynote to share how families can navigate healthy technology use with their children of all ages. We have provided a link on the Limestone website to reserve your seats for this evening event, which is being held, again, at Queen’s University on March 4.Second; next Thursday, February 27 will mark the election of the 44th parliament in Ontario. Our provincial government decides how our provincial taxes and federal transfer payments are distributed, how much is provided for education and where we prioritize their large envelopes of spending, and what is taught in our schools. It is in our best interest, as citizens of KFL&A, of Ontario, of Canada and of this Earth, to know where candidates stand on education issues. Your vote is your voice; make it an informed one. Democracy is a wonderful institution which works best with an informed populace and an engaged voting population. You can find information about voting, where, how and accessibility options, on the Elections Ontario website.With that, I would like to turn things to a less comfortable part of where we are in schools at the moment. Even folks who aren’t paying attention; even on purpose, because I know lots of people, including me, who tune out the daily news as a matter of course; even those folks, have a sense of what’s going on in the world these days. We are in worrying times, and I don’t say that to incite anxiety or to be alarmist. I have two young boys – 11 & 13 – and they think it’s quite funny to Sieg Heil behind my back. Or to do so in a slightly subtle, half-hearted way with a sly look to make sure they have my attention. This, I find very concerning; in no small part due to the state of world affairs and our neighbours to the south. Make no mistake – it is never okay for my boys to do this. And I fully understand that children do things to get a reaction. I have four children; trust me, I understand this. My boys have their own phones and they have access to the internet if they have WiFi; which is everywhere, including our schools. This is the world we live in. I monitor as much as I can and I am separated from their father, so my monitoring is limited. I do see enough content, and enough news, to know that we are at a tipping point. We have leaders elected to national levels born after World War II. We have social media that is a breeding ground for extremist content. The realities and lessons of history run the risk of slipping out of our social and individual consciousness. I believe it is important to be vigilant and to not stay silent. Hate can be insidious; it can present as a saviour or as a joke, or just an alternative; and I would like, I think it is important, to remind us all that there is never room for it. It is not funny, it is not cute, and it is not welcome. We are a small governing body and in the grand scheme of things we may seem minor. And we are directly connected to our future. A future that I hope, and I pray, is one filled with love and kindness, not dominated by divisive hate and intolerance. I believe, and this is why I sit proudly in this chair, that here in this room and out there in our schools we strive for, and we promote, a culture of tolerance and kindness and love. Sometimes we might get it wrong and when we do we learn and we grow. When we know better, we do better. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">"We stand for a system that is inclusive, that provides equity of opportunity, and that champions diversity as the keystone of human achievement." </h3>I believe in that education system and it is why I believe in the public education system. Because here, we sit in these chairs, and we stand for a system that is inclusive, that provides equity of opportunity, and that champions diversity as the keystone of human achievement. We must not let hate win; and it starts with our children.And that concludes my report."<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Director's Report</h2><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="324" height="324" style="float:right;width:324px;height:324px">Director Krishna Burra provided the follow report:"Good evening Trustees and members of the viewing public. It is hard to believe, but we are already a few weeks into the second half of the 2024-2025 school year. First term and first semester report cards have been sent home, secondary students are making course selections for next year, Choices at 9 programs have completed their processes, Choices at 7 programs will be making decisions soon, March Break is just around the corner, and planning is well underway for the 2025-2026 school year. Preparations for next year will continue to ramp up and we eagerly await the release of the budget for next school year that may well be delayed by the current provincial election.I have a number of highlights and upcoming events that I would like to share this evening. Winter KASSA seasons have either ended or will be ending prior to March Break. Last week the volleyball championships were held at St. Lawrence College, and tomorrow evening St. Lawrence hosts the boys’ basketball finals. It should be noted that all of the finals had, or will have, only LDSB schools in the finals. A second highlight occurred on February 5 just before our EPOC meeting when a Black History and Future Month opening ceremonies were held at LCVI. While I know senior staff and some trustees were only able to attend the first half of the event due to our EPOC meeting, there were several moving tributes to our former colleague and friend, Trustee Judi Brown.A third highlight is that Limestone has three secondary schools competing this week in a regional Canadian Improv Games event being held at The Spire starting this evening. In terms of upcoming events, I would like to highlight that LDSB, in partnership with LDSB PIC and KFL&A Public Health, are hosting an evening with Dr. Shimi Kang, author of “The Tech Solution: Creating Healthy Habits for a Digital World.” Given the emerging research, and provincial focus on healthy habits for children and youth interacting with screens and various media, this is a timely presentation that will be held at Humphrey Hall at Queen’s University on Tuesday, March 4 starting at 6:00 p.m. A second upcoming event of note will be held on the evening of Wednesday, April 30 when we will host an evening for Limestone families focused on artificial intelligence. This evening will provide an overview of this relatively new technology, how it impacts people’s lives already, and its potential uses to support student learning in Limestone schools. Further details will be shared about this event in several weeks.A third upcoming event is what we are hoping will be an outstanding Skills Competition at St. Lawrence College next week on February 26 and February 27, 2025. Almost 300 Limestone students, Grades 4-12, will be participating across 25 secondary events and seven elementary events. The Skills Competition is yet another example of community partnership that showcases critical skills events and the local community college.One final highlight that I will draw Trustees’ attention to is our continued emphasis on collecting voice from the communities we serve. Tonight, Associate Superintendent Gollogly will share an overview of the school year calendar feedback and look for Trustee approval of the 2025-2026 calendar. In the next week or so, we will be providing an opportunity for input on the 2025-2026 budget and gauge interest from families in virtual school programming for next year. Additionally, in the spring, all Limestone staff will have the opportunity to provide feedback on LDSB Corporate Services (Communications, Facilities, Finance, Human Resources, and ITS) as we continue to look for improved delivery of services for staff. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">"Limestone school communities and staff are critical partners, and our schools are representative of the communities we serve; we have a responsibility to be responsive to community voice and changing circumstances."</h3>And on this final note, I would like to thank all Limestone staff who contributed to the 2024 United Way campaign. We just received the final tally and LDSB staff contributed almost $55,000 to the campaign which provides critical supports to meet the needs of some of the most vulnerable people in KFL&A, including students and families we serve.And that concludes my report."<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">OPBSA Report</h2>Trustee McGregor provided an OPBSA report. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Trustees' Report</h2>Student Trustee Kumar provided the following report:"At our meeting on February 11, 2025, the Inter-Student Council (ISC) held elections for the Urban and Rural Student Trustee positions for the 2025-2026 term. Through an interview and voting process, student representatives from high schools across the board selected the candidates they thought best suited the role of a Student Trustee. We are pleased to congratulate Siham Ishmail from Kingston Secondary School (KSS) who was elected as the incoming Urban Student Trustee, Mia Comeau, from Granite Ridge Education Centre who was acclaimed as the incoming Rural Student Trustee, and current Indigenous Student Trustee Rachel Kolosov from KSS who was acclaimed as the Indigenous Student Trustee for the 2025-2026 term. As we move into the second half of our term as Student Trustees, we look forward to working with the incoming Student Trustees to help them transition into their roles. This concludes our February ISC meeting report, thank you." <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">2025-2026 School Year Calendar</h3>Associate Superintendent Gollogly shared an overview of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar consultation results along with a motion to approve next year’s calendar.When the survey closed on February 3, 2025, a total of 4,500 responses were received. The breakdown of respondents included 71% families, 21% staff, and 8% students/other.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">Calendar Option 3 was the most selected, chosen 45.7% of the time:</h4>• 43.5% of families• 53.6% of staff• 47.2% of students/other<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">Option 1 received 27.66% support, while Option 2 was selected by 26.64% of respondents. </h4>These results closely aligned with survey findings from both the Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board and the Algonquin Lakeshore Catholic District School Board.<img src="/images/aecd1824-1da4-40a0-91f8-1269c45b680f?fingerprint=ppb20251217014623" alt="Image of Option 3 of the school year calendar 2025-2026" width="898" height="693" style="width:898px;height:693px">The results of the survey were reviewed by LDSB’s School Year Calendar Committee and the other coterminous school boards. Based on the results, all three Boards will be recommending Calendar Option 3 for the 2025- 2026 school year.The following Motion was presented:That the Trustees approve Calendar Option 3 for the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar. The motion carried. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Gould Lake Outdoor Education Centre Programming</h3>Superintendent McWilliams and Program Teacher Nate Zahn provided Trustees with an overview of LDSB's Outdoor Education Programming for the 2024-2025 school year, including summer programming as well as demonstrating how Outdoor Education programming supports student well-being/sense of belonging, participation/engagement in class time, and time focused on learning. Mr. Zahn also discussed how they are improving responsiveness and services to families, staff and community partners.Gould Lake Outdoor Centre has been committed to providing quality outdoor educational programming that is safe and fun, and provides participants with increased knowledge, understanding, respect and appreciation for themselves, their peers, and the environment since 1974.Gould Lake Outdoor Centre is a year-round facility that provides children and youth opportunities to experience physical and mental challenges in a positive, safe and inclusive learning environment, facilitated by experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable leaders.Gould Lake Outdoor Education Centre continues to support the Ontario Curriculum throughout the school year by offering LDSB students a variety of opportunities to engage with and learn through nature. A variety of summer programs continue to be offered through day camps, held at different locations across the district, for younger students. These include Nature Camps for students in Grades 1 to 4 and Outdoor Escape for students in Grades 5 to 7.<iframe data-lexical-video-id="qfr3vGmjCwY" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/qfr3vGmjCwY" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe>Increasingly advanced courses continue to be offered for more experienced students who are looking to build on previously learned knowledge and skills. These include Quest for Students in Grades 7 and 8, Girls Adventure Program for students identifying as female in Grades 7 and 8, Outreach programs for students between grades 9 and 11, Outdoor Skills for students in Grades 10 and 11 as well as the Wilderness Instructor Course for students in Grades 11 and 12. Additionally, Gould Lake staff collaborate with the Indigenous Education Team to support Indigenous ways of knowing and learning.Currently, there are 530 students registered for upcoming summer programs.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">Other stats:</h4><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">an average of 500 students participate in summer programming</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">7400 elementary students and 219 secondary students visited Gould Lake during the school year</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Gould Lake visited Clarendon Central P.S. & LCVI's School to Community classes</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Hosted 5 outdoor professional learning sessions in the Fall for educators to meet Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and to engage in learning focused on mathematics</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">New all-terrain wheelchair provides access for students on trails and programs</li></ul>The report was received for information purposes.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">International Education</h3>Bob Seitz, Executive Lead and VP of International Education provided Trustees with an overview of the board's International Education program. Marta, an international student from Germany, attending Bayridge Secondary School was also present to share her experiences.Limestone District International Education Office (IEO) facilitates students from around the world to travel to Kingston to learn. In addition to the core beliefs of the LDSB, the IEO focuses on Care, Responsiveness and being Globally Connected. The International Education program supports increased diversity and enrolment in Limestone schools, and provides valuable learning experiences for many secondary students. Currently, the IEO is hosting students from over 15 different countries and five continents. <img src="/images/4d2763b5-3c3c-4157-b47b-fa6431c84e4f?fingerprint=ppb20251217013727" alt="Image of graphic illustrating international student enrollment in Ontario and Limestone" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">Over the last five years the IEO has expanded school offerings to include seven schools. The finances gained in the program have been used to grow ESL support to schools like Loyalist CVI, Kingston SS, Bayridge SS and the district English-as-a-Second-Language program. In addition, schools that host IEO students are supported financially in their school budgets.Homestay families are currently the limiting factor for growth in the department. The IEO continues to promote the IEO in Kingston through social media, word-of-mouth connections, and school presentations. The IEO have also added shorter term programs (like one semester), to have potential homestay families consider the program before committing to hosting full-year students. Currently, there are programs for students staying one semester and up to and including multi-year to graduation. Staff will continue to add more homestay families to the hosting pool for September 2025.The report was received for information purposes. The meeting adjourned and Trustees moved into private session for a personnel item. Trustees will Rise and Report at the next, scheduled Regular Board Meeting in March 2025.

2025-02-20 21:12:05.336 +0000 UTC

Possible Bus Cancellations and School Closures for Thursday, February 13, 2025

Dear Families,We want to inform you that there is a high probability of Tri-Board Transportation cancellations tomorrow due to the forecasted accumulated snow and potential freezing rain across our region overnight and into tomorrow morning. Depending on the actual accumulations in different geographic parts of our school district and any potential travel advisories, there is a chance that some Limestone schools, and particularly more northerly schools, could be closed.If this is the case, Limestone will be communicating directly with families early tomorrow morning (by approximately 6:00 a.m.).We understand and appreciate that weather forecasts can change, but please know that we will be working closely with Tri-Board Transportation and our staff early tomorrow morning to make the best decision possible for the safety of Limestone students and staff.Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

2025-02-12 21:00:42 +0000 UTC

Photo of Dr. Shimi Kang Standing in an Auditorium

Kids and Screens: Healthy Habits - An Evening with Dr. Shimi Kang

Parents and guardians are invited to Kids and Screens: Healthy Habits - An Evening with Dr. Shimi Kang, author of <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https://www.drshimikang.com/books/the-tech-solution&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c0d68b9871c0d477fa55a08dd4b8539e0%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638749757767786109%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=PuS9%2Brjw24wVTkycP%2BbMNzdy3vdkY7rleZj1HvDq0h0%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">The Tech Solution: Creating Healthy Habits for Kids Growing Up in a Digital World</a>Join us for a free, one-hour keynote by <a href="https://www.drshimikang.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Dr. Shimi Kang</a>, where she shares how parents and guardians can navigate healthy technology use with their children of all ages. Refreshments will be served. Book sale and signing to follow! March 4, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.Queen’s University, Humphrey Hall 62 Arch Street, Kingston (North of the Craine Building and across the street from the Biosciences Complex).Free registration: <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http://bit.ly/DrShimiKang&data=05%7c02%7cgrangea%40limestone.on.ca%7c0d68b9871c0d477fa55a08dd4b8539e0%7ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7c0%7c0%7c638749757767806250%7cUnknown%7cTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7c0%7c%7c%7c&sdata=RualEF5mDXPhecho4Eabjiib/4tgtJdXyMy0N3OvTVY%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">bit.ly/DrShimiKang</a>   Brought to you by:Limestone District School Board (LDSB)LDSB Parent Involvement CommitteeKFL&A Public Health

2025-02-12 20:15:36.917 +0000 UTC

2025-2026 School Year Calendar Survey

The Limestone District School Board is currently working to develop the 2025-2026 school year calendar. In collaboration with our coterminous boards, Algonquin and Lakeshore Catholic District School Board and Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board, there are three options for consideration. We would like to gather the opinions of different members of the Limestone community to guide our final decision.Please take a few minutes to complete this short survey. The survey is open until Monday, February 3, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Survey link: <a href="https://bit.ly/SchoolYearSurvey20252026" class="editor-link">https://bit.ly/SchoolYearSurvey20252026</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. We appreciate your time in submitting your feedback.

2025-01-23 21:00:01 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs Jan. 15, 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 January 15, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees. 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">Board Meetings</a>.  All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe 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.” Vice-Chair Godkin chaired the meeting due to Chair Hutcheon participating remotely, as per Board Policy No. 8. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Private Session Report</h2>Trustee Elliott provided the Private Session Report for January 15, 2025:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The private session minutes were approved from the Annual Board Meeting Minutes (Private) – November 13, 2024</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Associate Superintendent Gollogly gave a safe schools update.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Director Burra provided two Personnel items.</li></ul>There was no other business conducted, or motions passed in Private Session.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Chair's Report</h2>The Chair's report was read by Trustee Godkin:"I would like to extend a Happy New Year to Trustees, senior staff students, staff and families of the Limestone District School Board. As we begin a new year, I would like to take a moment to mention the work immediately before us, including the coming 2025-2026 school year calendar, and our review and approval of the Board’s operating and capital budgets.As school board governors, trustees play a key role in shaping the conditions for a high-quality education for every student. While in office, trustees balance a range of responsibilities—setting the board’s strategic direction, creating policies, managing resources, engaging with the community, and holding our system accountable. This requires continuous learning and growth.At Limestone District School Board, we believe professional development is essential for everyone—staff, students, and trustees alike. Lifelong learning helps us all grow, ensuring we can meet the demands of our roles and responsibilities to the highest standard. For trustees, this means continuing to build knowledge and expertise—both individually and as a group—so we can guide our board effectively and tackle the complex issues we face.The Ministry of Education has also emphasized the value of professional learning for trustees. In a virtual meeting last fall, the Ministry confirmed that this kind of development is important and that public funds can appropriately be used to support it.The upcoming Ontario Provincial Education Symposium for trustees next week is a great opportunity for trustees to continue growing in our roles. This professional learning offers sessions on topics directly affecting the role of trustee, and the broader environment within which school boards operate. I am confident you will find it valuable learning.In closing, I would like to wish best of luck to secondary students on their upcoming exams, and for the successful completion of semester one." <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Director's Report</h2><img src="/images/959f9ebc-0553-5f56-afed-83ccf39d2906?fingerprint=ppb20251217014409" alt="" width="405" height="405" style="float:right;width:405px;height:405px">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, and school climate data, all of which we shared in the fall, all serve as good reminder of the critical undertakings ahead of us as a school board. As we continue forward with our LDSB 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. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">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. </h3>Last week, I had the pleasure of visiting several schools as part of the Ministry of Education Math visit to Limestone and it was wonderful to see the significant impact of our learning in this area in action in multiple classrooms. Our work matters and makes a difference. I offer my thanks and appreciation to the central team led by Associate Superintendent Hedderson, and the impressive work occurring due to the efforts of staff in Limestone schools. While it is only January, preliminary preparations are already underway for the 2025-2026 school year. In the next few weeks, we anticipate the release of provincial funding to help support our planning for next year. Choices program information has been shared with the community and students will be engaging in those processes. In addition, last week, this week, and in the next couple of weeks secondary schools are engaging with Grade 8 students and families to provide information to further support the transition to secondary school in the fall. In addition, 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. This time of year also means secondary summative assessments and exams start in the next few days, and report cards for students K-12 are just around the corner in February.Given recent cyber incidents impacting an adjacent school board, local police authorities, and the largest Student Information System providers in North America, I want to emphasize that Limestone has not been impacted by any of these incidents. Our Student Information System is Aspen, and the one PowerSchool tool we use was not impacted by their recent cyber breach. I bring this issue up for a couple of reasons: while we have not been impacted at this point, it is likely more a matter of when as opposed to if. The reality is that these types of incidents are occurring more and more frequently, and it is critical for us to continue to prioritize cyber safety and security measures. On occasion, increasing our cyber measures can impact ease of use, but this is necessary to maximize our level of protection.While teaching and learning must continue to be a focus in schools to support student learning and well-being, it important to remember the range of great activities occurring in schools: here are just a few examples, the Robotics event and competition at Calvin Park/LCVI this past weekend; the Youth Imagine the Future Festival and Gallery in December, and the recent engagement with Grade 7-12 sites to name the upcoming educational campaign focused on vaping and screen time, are just three recent and current examples. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">OPBSA Report</h2>Trustee McGregor provided an OPBSA report. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Trustees' Report</h2>Student Trustee Bukhari provided the following report:"Good evening trustees and the viewing public. Our January Inter-student Council (ISC) meeting took place on January 7, 2025, chaired by Student Trustee Kumar and Student Trustee Kolosov. To start our meeting, we were privileged to have Andrea Barrow, the LDSB Equity and Inclusion Consultant, do a presentation on Black History Month to help student groups be proactive in their plans to recognize Black History month in schools. We covered topics such as why we recognize Black History Month, the ministry's upcoming inclusion of Black History in elementary and Grade 10 history curriculums, as well as the Black History lessons that LDSB students and the equity team worked to create. During the presentation, the council had a chance to see what events different schools were planning to run to recognize Black History Month. Andrea Barrow also displayed a series of Black History Month resources that she had created to help ensure all schools would have materials to display. The council was able to provide valuable feedback on what kind of resources would be best utilized at their sites and look forward to working collaboratively with other student groups to recognize Black History Month. Schools this month begin to wrap up the work from the Youth Homelessness Initiative that began in November following an impactful presentation by Kim Hockey from KFL&A United Way.Kim’s presentation included shocking and relevant statistics about the prevalence of youth homelessness, and inspired students to take action in supporting those who were struggling and breaking down stigmas and stereotypes. Kim provided ISC with a number of posters and resources to build awareness in schools and also shared a moving student-led video project. <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">"Council members shared a number of exciting activities and events dedicated to raising money and support for the fight against youth homelessness; including food, clothing, and toy drives, as well as fundraisers that raised over $1000." </h3>In conversation about challenges students were facing at their school sites, many schools mentioned that vandalism and vaping in the bathrooms has become an increased issue.Trustees may recall from August that vape detectors were installed in two high schools as a trial run. Council members shared that installed vape detectors in their school bathrooms were not acting as effective deterrents for vaping and were not providing accurate notices to admin. Students shared that vaping and crowding in bathrooms has remained a consistent issue throughout the school year with little change since the detector's installment.** To wrap up our meeting, we discussed the next student trustee elections happening in February and ensured that all members were on the same page about the elections. This concludes our report for the January ISC meeting. Thank you." Student Trustee Kosolov provided trustees with an update on the school visits she undertakes as the Indigenous Student Trustee for Limestone. She recently meet with self-identified Indigenous students at LCVI, and had a very productive meeting. <h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">**[In response to the Student Trustee Report, Director Burra and Associate Superintendent Gollogly provided trustees with an update on the installation of the vape detectors as part of the LDSB and Public Health initiative in two pilot schools, sharing that the Ministry of Education had requested installation of a different product which caused the delay of the installation of the detectors in the two pilot schools. Associate Superintendent Gollogly noted that the vape detectors were recently installed and tested at LCVI, and Frontenac S.S. would have their detectors installed shortly.]</h4><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Action</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan</h3>Superintendent of Corporate Services Young, Manager of Facility Services Fowler and Assistant Manager Downie provided the Board with the Multi-Year Capital and School Renewal Project Plan for the current school year and to make a recommendation for approval.The Facility Services Department has developed the Capital and School Renewal Project Plan based upon the VFA Building Condition reports for all schools; assessing local needs with school staff, analysis from maintenance work orders; knowledge from facilities trades and maintenance staff, and expertise from engineering and other consultants.The Multi-Year Capital plan includes an updated 2024-2025 listing of $21,071,289 projects by school. Project work estimates are based upon the best available project scope and costing information at the time of evaluation. For the 2023-2024 to 2032-2033 school years, the 10-year plan includes an estimated $4,500,000 in proposed annual school renewal project activity per year based upon prior year Ministry funding levels. This plan may/will change to reflect actual Ministry school renewal funding levels when announced.<h4 class="editor-heading-h4" dir="ltr">Recommendations: 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. Motion moved by Trustee Ruttan and seconded by Trustee Lloyd. Carried.</h4><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reports for Information</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">2024-2025 Revised Estimates and Interim Financial Report for Q1</h3>Superintendent Young and Manager of Financial Services Carson provided trustees with the 2024-2025 revised estimates and interim financial operating expenditures for the period ending November 30, 2024 (Quarter 1).The report provides an update on enrolment and staffing changes since the budget was approved by the Board in June 2024. Also included, were updated operating and capital sections of the budget, reflecting revenue and expenditure information at revised estimates.Manager Carson provided an itemized account and line-by-line explanation of those areas that either had a net increase or decrease. Operating Budget Revenues and Expenditures as well as Capital Budget Revenue and Capital Budget Expenditures were reviewed. The interim financial operating expenditures for the period ending November 30, 2024 (Quarter 1) are presented in a similar format to the 2024-2025 operating budget, indicating the amount spent by expenditure category and the associated percentage, and meets all Ministry of Education requirements. As at Quarter 1, $74.7M of the $312.7M operating budget or 24% has been spent. This is comparable to the 26% results from the same quarter last year.The report was received for information purposes.<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr">Mental Health Operational Plan 2024-2025</h3>Superintendent Gilliam, Mental Health Lead Conboy and Special Education Coordinator West provided the Board with an update of the 2024-2025 Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy Action Plan and progress on the 2025-2028 Mental Health Substance Use and Addictions Three Year Strategy.The 2025-2028 Mental Health Substance Use and Addictions Strategy is in its initial review phase with the LDSB Mental Health and Substance Use Leadership Committee and will be released soon. As part of this three-year plan, the 2024-25 Mental Health and Substance Use Strategy Action Plan details the goals associated with the current school year and actions that will support student well-being and mental health across the district.As in previous years, the goals are collated under keys areas of focus. For the 2025-2028 three-year plan and the 2024-25 one-year plan, the areas of focus are:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Mental Health, Substance Use and Addictions Support</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Engagement and Collaboration</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Pathways to/through/from Mental Health, Substance Use, and Addictions Care</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Identity-Affirming Practice</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Equip and Support Staff</li></ul>Key elements of both the 2025-2028 three-year plan, and the current 2024-2025 Mental Health and Substance Use Action Plan, include supporting the implementation of both the mandatory Grade 7 and 8 Mental Health Modules that support the Health and Physical Education curriculum and the revisions to the existing Career Studies (GLC20) curriculum. Both the Grade 7 and 8, and Grade 10 GLC20 revisions are designed to enhance mental health literacy, and equip students with culturally responsive, evidence-informed knowledge, skills and strategies to support their mental health and well-being, both in school and on-going.<img src="/images/0838300c-e912-4dbd-95d5-17851522ce70?fingerprint=ppb20251217013050" alt="Image of mental health self-referral postcard and a list of other school-based supports" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit">Trustees were provided with a detailed list of school-based resources and supports for students including postcards that will be distributed to Grade 9 students so they know who their supports are, and increasing opportunities to talk about mental health and substance use at school. Another key element of both plans is supporting the system in implementing Dr. David Tranter’s Third Path: A Relationship-Based Approach to Student Well-Being and Achievement. While this work is not new, and has been a focus for several years, many schools have initiated the use of this resource as a foundation to improving relationships within the school context to encourage and support improved attendance and parent/caregiver engagement.The report was received for information purposes. The meeting adjourned and Trustees moved into private session for a personnel item. Trustees will Rise and Report at the next, scheduled Regular Board Meeting on February 19, 2025.

2025-01-17 17:27:47.127 +0000 UTC

Winter Solstice Celebration 2024

All Self-Identified students of the Limestone District School Board and their families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15). This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon. If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne at<a href="mailto:mundellg@limestone.on.ca" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">mundellg@limestone.on.ca</a>. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening. Transportation is available to and from this event. <figure><img src="/images/c9791674-b7c7-4c1a-8748-6d344f3fb0b0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014853" alt="Winter Solstice Celebration 2024" width="694" height="926" style="width:694px;height:926px"><figurecaption>Image description: All Self-Identified LDSB students & their families are invited to celebrate the Winter Solstice on December 18, 2024 from 5:30-7:30pm at the Kingston East Community Centre (779 HWY 15).  This evening will be an opportunity for families to connect and share a hearty meal, take part in hands-on activities, and honour Grandmother moon.  If you plan on attending, please RSVP Gillianne atmundellg@limestone.on.ca. Your RSVP helps us plan for this special evening.  Transportation is available to and from this event. </figurecaption></figure>

2024-11-26 16:13:15.621 +0000 UTC

You're Invited - Meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team - Online Sessions

All families across Limestone District School Board are invited to attend one of two upcoming online information sessions to meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team on November 27 or December 9 5:30 to 6:30 p.m..At each session, families will learn about the Human Rights and Equity Team roles, how to navigate the Student Human Rights Incidents and Complaints system in our schools, and where to find helpful resources on the LDSB website.Families are invited to join the online sessions here:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428039144%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=cKfRMxHLZaU9fVix1%2Bo2AC26XphvJmdKNPbds1gDzJs%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">November 27, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/ap/t-59584e83/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fteams.microsoft.com%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%253ameeting_YTQ4YTUwMjYtNTk1NC00NzE2LTgxN2QtY2UxZjBkODM0MGMw%2540thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%2522f7882077-9b8d-41e9-b7b7-430b5b78c3f8%2522%257d&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7Cb4d4376c4f5f4835500508dd099705cf%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638677266428062129%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=m87byBDK2Ri2EpdlhaXqBd2B8dhjEBGAQrTP2Rze1vc%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">December 9, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.</a></li></ul>If you or your family members require accommodations to attend the meeting, please e-mail <a href="mailto:abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">abdulkareemy@limestone.on.ca</a>.The sessions are not intended to address specific school-based concerns. If you do have a specific concern, please reach out directly to your student’s school.

2024-11-20 21:03:12.931 +0000 UTC

Choices at 7 Programming and Open Houses for the 2025-2026 School Year

Choices at 7 Programs for the 2025-2026 School Year

The Limestone District School Board's Choices at 7 programs offer opportunities for students entering Grade 7 to participate in a variety of unique learning environments. Depending on the availability of places in the programs, students currently in Grade 7 may also apply to join a program for their Grade 8 year. The Choices at 7 Programs that are offered include: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">ATLAS (Applying Technology for Learning, Aptitude and Success) </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Challenge (Gifted and Academic Enrichment Program) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">LEAP (Limestone Education through the Arts Program) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Extended French Immersion Program </li></ul>For detailed information about any of the Choices at 7 programs, please visit the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Choices at 7 </a>webpage.The application links for ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, and close at 4 p.m. on January 13, 2025.The application links for Extended French Immersion will open at 9 a.m. on December 13, 2024, and applicants are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible. The application link for Extended French Immersion will remain open throughout the school year.All applicants to ATLAS, Challenge and LEAP will receive an email on January 17, 2025, outlining, in detail, the next steps of the application process (i.e., task requirements, how to submit tasks, etc.).  Please contact the Registrar if you do not receive an email on this date <a href="mailto:choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca</a>Applicants to the Extended French Immersion programs will receive communication directly from the school.Please read the instructions below carefully to ensure that you complete the correct application form. The application links will not be active until 9:00 am on Friday, December 13, 2024.IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE ATLAS, LEAP, AND/OR CHALLENGE PROGRAMS and IS:A.    Currently Attending a School WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school WITHIN the Limestone District School Board, please click on the links for CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. Your child must login to the Application Form using their LDSB Active Directory Username and Password.  The login must be the applicant’s login information and not a sibling, parent, etc. This is the regular login that they use to login to devices at school. If your child is unsure of their school login information, please contact their school directly. You may apply to more than one program. <a href="https://forms.office.com/r/eJB2mWda8Y" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/cFGFLcJc3r" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/p0HzrLUDFR" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR CURRENT LIMESTONE STUDENTS</a>B.     Currently Attending a School OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardIf your child currently attends a school that is OUTSIDE the Limestone District School Board, please click on the application links for NON-LDSB STUDENTS and follow the instructions to complete the Choices at Seven Application Form. You may apply for more than one program.<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/raViAnzHEA" class="editor-link">ATLAS APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/7CihfU7wW4" class="editor-link">LEAP APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/bTCUQSysYW" class="editor-link">CHALLENGE APPLICATION FORM FOR NON-LDSB STUDENTS</a>IF YOUR STUDENT IS INTERESTED IN APPLYING TO THE EXTENDED FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM and IS:A.  Currently Attending a school WITHIN the Limestone District School BoardClick on the site link below to complete the application for Extended French Immersion:<a href="https://forms.office.com/r/rdSe0tC3au" class="editor-link">HARROWSMITH PUBLIC SCHOOL APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/ys3TbYjVrT" class="editor-link">MODULE DE L’ACADIE APPLICATION LINK</a><a href="https://forms.office.com/r/0wY2RrPBA9" class="editor-link">MODULE VANIER APPLICATION LINK</a>** Students currently enrolled in a LDSB French Immersion program will be automatically transferred to their immersion site.B. Currently enrolled in a school OUTSIDE of the Limestone District School BoardPlease go to the <a href="https://limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">Limestone District School Board website</a> to complete the new student Online Registration form. Please contact the French Immersion site if you have questions about the application form.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Open Houses  </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">ATLAS, Challenge, and LEAP Choices at 7 Program Open House, Calvin Park Public School</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 10, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Ernestown Intermediate and Secondary School Grade 7 and 8 Challenge Program Open House </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 11, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Loughborough Public School Choices at 7 Challenge Program Open House   </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">December 12, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. </li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Harrowsmith Public School Extended French Immersion Open House </li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module de l'Acadie Extended French Immersion Open House </li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;">Module Vanier Extended French Immersion Open House</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.</li></ul></li></ul>

2024-11-15 17:14:18.869 +0000 UTC

Trustees Hutcheon and Godkin to serve another year as Executive of LDSB

Trustees Robin Hutcheon and Bob Godkin were elected to the roles of Chair and Vice-Chair at the Annual General Meeting of the Board November 13, 2024, for the session ending November 19, 2025. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair each year of their four-year mandate. This is the third year for both in their respective roles. Trustees also formalized the appointments of Jamie Maracle and Chris Scott to the Board, with both being sworn in at the Annual General Meeting. Trustee Jamie Maracle was appointed as Indigenous Trustee by the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, following the retirement of Trustee Kelly Maracle last month. Trustee Chris Scott was appointed by the Board of Trustees to represent the Loyalist-Cataraqui, Collins Bay, and Bayridge Districts in the City of Kingston, filling the vacancy left by the passing of Trustee Judith Brown on October 11, 2024. After her nomination, Chair Hutcheon thanked Trustee Godkin and expressed her appreciation for the strength of the LDSB team. "We are committed to students, to their success, and to their well-being. Our staff are innovative, caring, and efficient, and our trustees are passionate and kind," she remarked. She thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve, adding, "It is an honour to serve in this role." Chair Hutcheon was first elected in October 2018, now serving her second term. She has contributed to several Board committees and held roles with the Ontario Public School Boards Association.Similarly Vice-Chair Bob Godkin thanked Trustee Neill for the nomination, and said he looks forward to continuing the work of the Board. Vice-Chair Godkin is also in his second term of office, and represents the City of Kingston: Pittsburgh and King’s Town Districts, and Frontenac Islands. Membership of trustees to the Board’s various committees will be determined at the Nominations Meeting Monday, November 18, 2024.

2024-11-14 21:03:36.681 +0000 UTC

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

2025-2026 School Year Budget Survey

Service Update for Stock Riders

Free Webinar: EQAO Math Night for Parents and Guardians

Boardroom Briefs February 19, 2025

Possible Bus Cancellations and School Closures for Thursday, February 13, 2025

Kids and Screens: Healthy Habits - An Evening with Dr. Shimi Kang

2025-2026 School Year Calendar Survey

Boardroom Briefs Jan. 15, 2025

Winter Solstice Celebration 2024

You're Invited - Meet the LDSB Human Rights and Equity Team - Online Sessions

Choices at 7 Programs for the 2025-2026 School Year

Trustees Hutcheon and Godkin to serve another year as Executive of LDSB