Napanee District Secondary School

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Volunteers Needed</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Hawks Holiday Bazaar is looking for volunteers.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are able to offer some time for this amazing event, please use the link below.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fforms.gle%2F1findW6qwKeRz7GZ8&amp;data=05%7C02%7Cmacdonaldp%40limestone.on.ca%7Ca076d4fcb1ff4f689ac508de1fa5f24b%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638982994767501106%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&amp;sdata=9mlSbOpZAtLe3CwHwFzuMdGIoMKcZML26cqdGKPgJMY%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="Original URL: https://forms.gle/1findW6qwKeRz7GZ8. Click or tap if you trust this link." class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Volunteers</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/603bad31-f108-4665-b59f-c4c6aaa9ded7" alt="2025 Holiday Bazaar ad" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Saturday, November 22, 2025 from 9 am to 3pm the Hawks Holiday Bazaar is back</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">! Join over 120 vendors for a holiday shopping experience you won't want to miss. Silent Auction, Raffles, and visits with Santa! Proceeds will be shared with NDSS, Odessa Pony Club and the Spay Neuter Kingston Initiative. For more information or if you are able to volunteer for this community event, please contact &nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com" title="mailto:hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></p>

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Napanee District Secondary School</span></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hawks Family Update</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/b264d520-94ee-4e97-b7eb-318a6cb67f02" alt="HAWKS Collage" width="372" height="297" style="width:372px;height:297px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NDSS Students and Families,</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As October comes to a close with a Friday Halloween Night, we prepare for Remembrance Day in a week and a half. We pause to honor and remember the sacrifices made by countless individuals who served our country. It’s an important time for reflection and appreciation, and we encourage families to join us in recognizing the significance of this day.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are also at a critical point in the semester as midterm marks will be available on November 28. This is an important time for students and families, and we encourage ongoing communication between home and school to ensure student success.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For our Grade 10 students, the OSSLT (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test) is coming up and will be administered during the last week of November. We are here to support our students every step of the way.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our Hawks Have Character trait for November is self-discipline, and we encourage students to build this important skill as they pursue their goals.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we transition into our winter sports season, we are excited to see our athletes in action and to cheer on our Hawks! November is a busy and exciting time here at NDSS, and we would like to thank our dedicated staff and families for their continued support and commitment to our students’ growth and achievements.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Paul MacDonald, Beth Hasler, Allison Todd</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The NDSS Admin Team</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><img src="/images/23681def-f77b-4e2a-97d1-8e92f0dc9713" alt="HH1" width="425" height="638" style="width:425px;height:638px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/8dd701a9-e73a-485d-8edc-8c4d0429fd97" alt="HH2" width="424" height="636" style="width:424px;height:636px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: right;"><img src="/images/34be60b2-ffc7-486f-b290-f79ec4c710d6" alt="HH3" width="421" height="632" style="width:421px;height:632px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: right;"><img src="/images/8c1e0613-cf29-478b-b13c-a8c362d055df" alt="HH4" width="421" height="632" style="width:421px;height:632px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NDSS Student Council</span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">StuCo 2025-2026</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Congratulations to the incoming members of StuCo for the 2025-2026 school year:</span><img src="/images/37f4931a-e8e7-4da1-8db9-835135b4afd9" alt="StuCo 2025" width="287" height="396" style="width:287px;height:396px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Front to back:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Austin Marquette</strong></b></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Nara Rickard</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Isabelle Koktan</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sadie Lupton</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vienna Ballance-Hinch</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Troy Daines</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Weekly Announcements</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5984864d-a983-4b0c-8f95-3508518cba6b" alt="Weekly Announcements" width="133" height="99" style="width:133px;height:99px;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please click below:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://napaneedss.limestone.on.ca/daily-announcements-schedule" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Click Here</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank You Coaches!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/37db9986-cb41-434a-acfb-a4252d5d4971" alt="Thank You" width="207" height="127" style="width:207px;height:127px;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As the fall sports season comes to a close, we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all of our dedicated coaches. Their time, effort, and commitment to our student-athletes have been instrumental in making this season a success.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Whether on the field, court, or fairway, our coaches have gone above and beyond to support and inspire our students. We are grateful for their hard work and the positive impact they have on our school community.</span></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Winter Sports are coming...</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Pay attention to announcements for important information!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Swimming&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wrestling&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Badminton&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jr Boys Basketball&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sr Boys Basketball&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Curling&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Boys Hockey&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Girls Hockey&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Alpine Skiing/Snowboarding&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Jr Girls Volleyball&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Sr Girls Volleyball&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Novice Girls Volleyball</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f4dd7569-6ebe-4612-9031-6ede62f017b9" alt="Sports" width="213" height="108" style="width:213px;height:108px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hawks Holiday Bazaar – Join Us for a Festive Day</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We are excited to invite you to our annual Hawks Holiday Bazaar on November 22, 2025, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Napanee District Secondary School. This event will feature a large vendor market, a silent auction, raffle, and Santa photos! It’s a wonderful opportunity to support our school community and get a head start on holiday shopping.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Volunteers</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We will also need volunteers the day before and the day of the event. If you are able to help, even for a portion of those days, please email&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com" title="mailto:hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com" class="editor-link"><u><span class="editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">hawksholidaybazaar@gmail.com</span></u></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f9635ee3-062e-4020-ac76-798c095d36f8" alt="Bazaar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">See Yourself in Limestone – Student Census Survey</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/157f2b40-32bf-4ead-aec2-f76c2b7fd877" alt="2025 10 21 Student Census Social and Newsletter" width="280" height="280" style="width:280px;height:280px;display:inline-block"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments for all students. To help us better understand how students’ identities and experiences relate to their achievement and well-being, we are launching our second See Yourself in Limestone Student Census Survey this fall.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The census is a voluntary and confidential survey for students in Grades 4 to 12, running from November 24 to 28, 2025. It gathers information about students’ identities and their experiences at school. This data is then paired with academic information to help us understand what school is like for different groups of students.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Important information for families:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">· The survey is optional.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">· Responses are confidential and students can skip any questions they do not wish to answer.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">· Students will complete the survey during class time.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">· Students who do not participate will be provided with an alternative activity.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Families who do not want their student(s) to complete the survey must contact their school principal by Friday, November 14, 2025. Opting out means the student will not receive the survey in their e-mail inbox.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">By better understanding students’ identities and experiences, we can remove barriers and better support students in accessing what they need to succeed.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Learn more about the Student Census and how it supports equity in Limestone: </span><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">limestone.on.ca/student_census</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/4508d892-08d5-46c3-9d52-a9c367713e55" alt="Blue And Yellow Modern Meeting Parent Instagram Post" width="291" height="364" style="width:291px;height:364px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Insurance</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a0fa5083-4ba1-40ad-bc8a-210ab1cad590" alt="Insurance " width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/891b9fab-b172-4830-8212-cb933a1c4732" alt="Insurance 2" width="340" height="685" style="width:340px;height:685px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/108bf2c3-b8c5-4649-8928-165566874c9b" alt="Insurance 1" width="309" height="692" style="width:309px;height:692px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Climate</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Respect</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. Everyone would agree that this is an important shared value. As outlined in the Ontario School Code of Conduct, NDSS Code of Conduct, LDSB Code of Conduct, and LDSB Safe and Caring Schools, we must respect and treat others fairly, regardless of their race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, creed, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status or disability. We all need to consider the audience and impact of our words and actions and to remember that schools are places that must feel safe for everyone.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">For September,&nbsp;our school community will be focused on kindness to help our new and returning Hawks feel welcomed!</span><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Classroom Routines&nbsp;and Attendance</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. In&nbsp;our school community, it is critical that we respect and&nbsp;observe&nbsp;the routines necessary to maximize learning.&nbsp;Students are expected to attend school regularly and to attend all classes. Frequent absences from class may affect a student’s grades.&nbsp;This September a focus will be on students arriving&nbsp;at&nbsp;each class on time and minimizing&nbsp;disruption to the learning environment.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a62a61d8-40dd-4f4e-a984-b7b4eacfa66e" alt="Attendance Matters images 0" width="308" height="168" style="width:308px;height:168px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://cdn.smore.com/u/690b/f4f28c7193ebf14a609771aa7bcb3275.jpeg" title="Expand" class="editor-link"></a></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ATTENDANCE MATTERS!</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We want to emphasize the importance of attendance as it is fundamental to your success. Regular attendance builds a strong foundation for learning and contributes to a vibrant school community and academic success. Your active participation not only enhances your understanding of the curriculum but also fosters meaningful connections with peers and teachers.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When Absent:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• If students are under 18 years of age, verbal notification, or notification through School Messenger/Safe Arrival by the parent/guardian, each time the student is absent.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Students 18 years of age and older must submit a written and legitimate reason for absence to the Attendance Office. Reasons for signing out or for absence will be monitored and a doctor’s note may be requested at the student’s expense. A doctor’s note must be provided for absence on Examination days.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Legitimate reasons for absence from school are:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Illness or other unavoidable cause</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Music instruction not exceeding one-half day in any week</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Suspension or expulsion</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">• Holy Day for religious denomination to which student belongs</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A student who has signed out or been signed out by a parent/guardian must leave the school property. A student may not be signed out from class in order to work in another area of the school.</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education Act – School Attendance -&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/laws/statute/90e02#BK23" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Education Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. E.2 (ontario.ca)</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="693e23cc-40a2-4821-a553-877be508e9b5"></ie-document></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/abdcc8a4-f840-4074-8da5-a332421ad07d" alt="LDSB Code of Conduct" width="522" height="675" style="width:522px;height:675px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Picture Day</span><img src="/images/fd4c522a-37ea-4019-92ce-a1856bc59125" alt="School Picture Day" width="126" height="117" style="width:126px;height:117px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Retake Day</span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thursday, Oct. 30</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Daily Schedule </span></h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 33px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Time</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Period</strong></b></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">8:10 to 8:15 a.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Homeroom</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">8:15 to 9:30 a.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Block 1</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:30 to 9:38 a.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Break</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">9:38 to 10:53 a.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Block 2</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">10:53 to 11:52 a.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lunch</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">11:52 a.m. to 1:07 p.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Block 3</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:07 to 1:15 p.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Break</span></p></td></tr><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1:15 to 2:30 p.m.</strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Block 4</span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vaping and Washroom Conduct</span><img src="/images/5d4845b4-d4a0-4d2b-a09e-9f256169cf3e" alt="No Vaping" width="294" height="244" style="width:294px;height:244px;display:inline-block;float:right"></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At NDSS, vaping and spending excessive time in washrooms is prohibited. Vaping can pose significant health risks, and students found vaping on school grounds may be subject to consequences. If necessary, we will keep parents, guardians, and public health officials informed. We kindly ask that you remind your children that staff will continue to supervise washroom common areas as needed.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Classroom Expectations and Cell Phone Guidelines</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The staff at NDSS are excited to start the new school year and to receive your&nbsp;children on September 3rd. As the Admin Team, we also want you to know how grateful we are and look forward to enhancing&nbsp;the relationship we have as we support your children for the 2025-26 school year.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As you are likely aware changes to Personal Mobile Device legislation have now been put in place and I want to&nbsp;provide you with what that will look like in our school:</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy/Program Memorandum 128 -&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Restrictions to Student Personal Mobile Device Use </strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/b8b061e3-20b6-4467-82c2-f9caec1f7f1e" alt="Cell 1" width="169" height="218" style="width:169px;height:218px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At NDSS, we strive for our students to be healthy, happy, and fully engaged in their learning journey. We encourage them to pursue growth and always aim to be the best version of themselves.&nbsp;To support student learning at NDSS, we have developed guidelines for the use of personal mobile devices (cell phones).</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal Mobile Device Definition</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Any device that has internet access, texting, music, or gaming capabilities.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal Mobile Device Guidelines</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Personal mobile device is in your bag, in your locker, or the space provided by your teacher (not on your person).</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Headphones/earbuds are not in use during teacher instruction and class time.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">No personal mobile devices in washrooms or changerooms.</span></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Smart Watches notifications are turned off during instruction and class time.</span></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Teachers will indicate if there are specific learning situations that support personal mobile device use.</span></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students are welcome to access their devices during breaks and/or lunch.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Teachers will reach out to parents to work together to help your child understand the new guidelines. Teachers will connect with administrators for support if some students continue to struggle.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We believe (and research supports) that cell phone use is having a negative impact on student learning, engagement, mental health, and social and emotional development.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We believe in implementing these guidelines with care and compassion. We want to support our students in understanding how cell phones impact their learning and wellbeing. We also want to teach our students how to use cell phones appropriately and in a healthy way. Thank you for your support!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">(CTIP)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><h1 class="editor-heading-h1" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Policy/Program Memorandum 128 | Education in Ontario: policy and program direction</span></h1><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Read the Ministry of Education's direction and expectations for district school boards and school authorities. Direction is issued as policy documents called Policy and Program Memoranda (PPM), which are all given a specific number.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">ontario.ca</span></p></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/6b629a79-3f56-47d0-a698-d25de929756c" alt="Parent Info PMD" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hawks Have Character!</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we kick off the 2025-2026 school year, we are excited to announce that we will be focusing on the “Hawks Have Character” traits each month throughout the year. This initiative is designed to foster a positive and supportive school environment where every student </span><img src="/images/d2b2ab40-f56b-4d12-859b-ebcba6a098e3" alt="The Hawk Costume" width="165" height="132" style="width:165px;height:132px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">can thrive.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Throughout the year, we will celebrate and embrace valuable character traits such as Perseverance, Good Judgement, Courage, Respect, Integrity, Self-Discipline, Responsibility, and Kindness. These traits are essential in shaping not only individual character but also the character of our entire school community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We have seen these qualities displayed daily by our students and staff, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported. Your commitment to embodying these traits has made NDSS a place where strong character thrives and where we can all be proud to belong.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we begin this year’s focus, we encourage everyone to carry these values forward. Let’s continue to support one another, creating an environment where these important traits thrive, and where every member of our community feels empowered to contribute positively.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Your efforts have made a significant impact on our school, and we are grateful for your commitment to building a strong and vibrant NDSS community. Together, we will make this school year a memorable and successful one.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wishing you all a wonderful start to the school year. Let’s build on the foundation of strong character that we have established together.</span></p></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/cfccb559-fdf8-4723-b18b-c15fe0468a4b" alt="New Hawks Have Character" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5e42ab21-0d46-40d5-b6e1-c10d38771086" alt="Respect in the Workplace" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Human Rights Reporting</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A poster with information on the human rights reporting tool is displayed in our halls and classrooms. If someone experiences or witnesses a violation of these rights, we encourage them to report it to a trusted adult or use the human rights reporting tool by scanning the provided QR code. We are committed to ensuring our school is a safe environment for everyone. Slurs, epithets, discrimination, bullying (verbal, social, physical, or cyber), and symbols of hate are all violations of the Human Rights Code. If you or your child have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.</span></p></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/49570f21-25d8-46dd-ba89-66639da158b7" alt="Human Rights" width="543" height="846" style="width:543px;height:846px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="https://www.ontario.ca/document/education-ontario-policy-and-program-direction/policyprogram-memorandum-128" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">School Messenger</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger App:&nbsp;</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Download the SchoolMessenger App to stay connected. Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app. *New families will be able to create their account after the first day of attendance.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How do I report an absence?</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please use the Safe Arrival system to report your child's absence; do not call the school to report an absence.&nbsp;</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child is going to be absent from learning, please ensure you use the Safe Arrival system to report the absence.&nbsp;</span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If your child will be late, please report a full day absence and then we will sign them in when they arrive. You cannot indicate a half day absence.</em></i></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">How to report your absence:</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1. Toll-free telephone</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Call&nbsp;</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">1-855-257-9349</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;toll-free to report an absence using the automated phone system.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2. School Messenger App</strong></b></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Use your mobile device to download and install the free SchoolMessenger blue app from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.com/#/home" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">, or from within the LDSB mobile app.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system.</span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then select Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">3.&nbsp;</strong></b><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" class="editor-link"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger SafeArrival Website Portal</strong></b></a><br></p><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Visit the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://go.schoolmessenger.ca/#/account/login" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SchoolMessenger website portal</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.</span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The first time you use the app, you must select Sign Up to create your account. Please ensure you use the same email address your student’s school has on file. If you do not use that same email address, you will not be able to create an account, or may not be able to see the "Attendance" option. You may have already created an account when we introduced the Communicate broadcast system. </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Select Attendance, then Report an Absence and follow the prompts.</span></li></ul></a></p><iframe data-lexical-video-id="TSCIybbq3xc" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/TSCIybbq3xc" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><ul class="editor-list-ul"></ul></a></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/5f8942a1-142b-4067-a176-16911fce0b08" alt="Intention" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></a></p>