Napanee District Secondary School

<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"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Vice Principal Transition at NDSS</strong></b></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">As we look ahead to Semester 2, we recognize an important leadership transition at Napanee District Secondary School.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After two and a half years of dedicated service, we extend our sincere thanks to Allison Todd, Vice Principal, as she departs NDSS to begin a new role within Educational Services. Throughout her time at NDSS, Ms. Todd demonstrated a strong commitment to student success, staff collaboration, and the well-being of the school community. Her thoughtful leadership, professionalism, and steady presence supported both day-to-day operations and long-term growth. Ms. Todd will be greatly missed by students, staff, and families. We thank her for her meaningful contributions and wish her every success and fulfillment as she moves forward in her new role.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">At the same time, we are pleased to welcome Diana Truesdell, who will be joining NDSS as Vice Principal for Semester 2. Ms. Truesdell brings valuable experience from her time at Frontenac Secondary School and a student-centered approach to her leadership, and we look forward to the positive impact she will have within our school community. We are excited to have her join the administrative team and welcome her warmly to NDSS.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We appreciate the dedication of both Ms. Todd and Ms. Truesdell and recognize the important role school leadership plays in supporting a strong, caring, and successful learning environment.</span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><br></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Paul MacDonald - Principal</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Farewell Ms. Todd</span></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 I prepare to transition to another school, I wanted to take a moment to share my gratitude with this remarkable school.&nbsp;From the very beginning, this school made me feel welcomed and at home. Serving here first as a teacher and later as an administrator has been a true privilege and one that I will always hold close.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Our students have been at the heart of everything. Their curiosity, resilience, kindness, and humour have </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0bcd643d-7f99-4396-bc0c-8cb2e0cd8214" alt="Allison Todd" width="138" height="138" style="width:138px;height:138px;display:inline-block;float:right"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">brought meaning and joy to every day I have spent at NDSS. Whether in classrooms, hallways, the office, or at school events, it has been the daily interactions with students that have reminded me why this work matters so deeply.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I will miss this community very much and I struggle to imagine feeling at home anywhere else. The shared moments, the relationships built, and the sense of belonging that makes this school such a special place will be difficult to replace. As I move forward, I will carry with me countless heartfelt memories of my time here and the students and families who make this school what it is. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey; it has truly been a gift.&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;Allison Todd - Vice Principal</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome Ms. Truesdell</span></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;">Hi! I am so excited to be joining the NDSS staff and community. My past fifteen years in education have been </span><img src="/images/aa50d2ee-e916-419d-a33d-61aa65cfb71b" alt="Diana Truesdell" width="144" height="144" style="width:144px;height:144px;display:inline-block;float:right"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">spent serving students and their families in the Limestone District School Board, most recently at Frontenac Secondary. Please come by and say hello, tell me a bad joke, or ask me for help. Thank you for welcoming me into the Hawk nest - I can’t wait to meet you!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Diana Truesdell, Acting Vice Principal&nbsp;</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome to Our Semester 2 Staff</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://napaneedss.limestone.on.ca/our_staff" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Staff</span></a></h2><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" 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><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Student Recognition</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/51d0f2a5-2042-499d-8fea-8d20c8525af9" alt="Poems1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/979fbdd9-7496-4262-b0f3-31f00628ef1f" alt="Poems2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/46973154-2a23-4039-8cfc-fbdc93f67875" alt="SLAP Flyer 8 x 10" 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"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">From The Health Unit</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/0aa9b477-3798-4fb3-85c0-bf39f5cf20a6" alt="Immunization" width="309" height="427" style="width:309px;height:427px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/82d68432-4b42-482c-b267-219131ac8fcf" alt="2026 01 19 Snow Over It Secondary Newsletter Insert" width="366" height="458" style="width:366px;height:458px;display:inline-block;float:right"></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"><br></p><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="213" height="116" style="width:213px;height:116px;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><h1 class="editor-heading-h1" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Napanee District Secondary School Grade 8 Information Night</span></h1><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Join us at Napanee District Secondary School – February 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.</span><img src="/images/03c0e750-af7a-449e-bbc4-d257d13461c3" alt="Future Hawks Open House Feb 19 2025" width="161" height="161" style="width:161px;height:161px;display:inline-block;float:left"></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><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><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>

<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Registration for Grades 4-8 students opens on February 2, 2026! Scan the QR code below or click the Registration link.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/a8dec1ed-05f4-4b1b-b11c-d26ff0b6ee1e" alt="Napanee Youth Volleyball League" 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" style="text-align: start;"><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Welcome to the Nest future Golden Hawks!&nbsp;</strong></b></i><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The transition from Grade 8 to Grade 9 is an exciting time. To help Grade 8 students make a smooth transition to secondary school, our Guidance Department, also known as "People Place", suggests you follow these steps:</span></p><ol class="editor-list-ol"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">2026&nbsp; Grade 8 Open House - Wednesday, February 18 at 6:30 pm</strong></b></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Following the Open House, Grade 8 students from the Limestone feeder schools will choose classes for Grade 9 using the MyBluePrint platform. Grade 8 teachers are there to help and will let students know the details for submitting (deadline March 2, 2026).</span><br><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Check out course selection </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">and other important Grade 9 Program information:</span><br><a href="https://napaneedss.limestone.on.ca/documents/f219ea56-bdd6-48f6-86d4-9b9d65cee327/Grade-9-Program-Calendar-2026.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Grade 9 Program Calendar 2026.pdf</span></a><br><a href="https://napaneedss.limestone.on.ca/documents/a675aa21-524e-4dc8-a601-92632d664135/LDSB%20Gr%208%20Course%20Selection%202025-26.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Getting started with myBlueprint</em></i></a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" style="text-align: start;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Out of Board</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">new)</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">to LDSB - Registration and course selection information for families&nbsp;</strong></b><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">***NOT REQUIRED for current students of Limestone DSB</em></i><i><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">.**</strong></b></i><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are </span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Out of Board</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> (</span><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">new)</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> to Limestone DSB please </span><a href="http://limestone.on.ca/families/register_a_student" title="registration link" class="editor-link"><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Register</em></i></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">&nbsp;your student. </span><i><em class="editor-text-italic" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">After the Open House</em></i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on February 18, Grade 9 Course Selection information for NDSS will be available and with these instructions: </span><a href="https://napaneedss.limestone.on.ca/documents/e75b5b59-5797-47a2-9e0f-862576c7ac02/Out%20of%20Board%20%20Gr%208%20Course%20Selection%202025-26.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Out of Board Course Selection</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><br></a></li></ol><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">If you are eager to show your Hawk pride, check out our clothing options on the&nbsp;</span><a href="https://napaneedistrictsecondaryschool.entripyshops.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" title="hawk shop" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Hawk Shop</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">!</span></p>