Once again this school year, I am so proud of our staff’s commitment and dedication which has resulted in student success. I am grateful and honoured to have been part of this school community for the past thirteen years knowing that our students succeed as a result of the partnership between our staff and our families. Special thanks to our parents who have contributed in ways small, large, and unimaginable! Thanks for getting your kids to school on time each day and helping your children in the learning process; the partnership between home and school is important.
This year we hosted approximately 80 parents at our Volunteer Tea. Our students and staff shared their appreciation and gratitude for the gift of time and talent that every volunteer brings to our school. I would like to thank every volunteer once again.
In September, we are expecting 625 students K-5 placed in 26 homeroom classes. We are committed to providing excellent teaching and learning in a positive character-focused environment for every child. Classes were configured by the students’ current teachers. Classroom teachers have the most valid and current knowledge about their students as learners and they work with the School Administration and Resource Team to ensure the most optimum learning environments are created. Every attempt is made to balance a wide variety of factors: matching student learning style with teacher’s style, group dynamics, gender balance and class size to create a strong learning environment in every classroom. It is very difficult to support requests to change classes. Any such requests must be given in writing to the principal, and changes will not occur until the end of the first week and only if there are truly exceptional circumstances related to academic success. Schools must always remember that our central purpose is student learning. We are charged with creating the conditions and culture which demonstrate that we value student learning and achievement. Education is critical to our children’s future success.
At the end of this school year, we are saying a fond farewell to many students. Most of our Grade 5 students will be attending Sir Wilfrid Laurier. Many of these students have been with us since Kindergarten or Grade 1 and we will miss them. We also have students who are leaving us due to family moves – we will miss them as well. We wish all the students leaving us the brightest of futures. You have enriched our lives!
I have enjoyed many happy years at our school. I believe that we have the best students and teachers and the most supportive families. As I leave Chris Akkerman School, thank you all for the wonderful memories. I am leaving a piece of my heart with you.
Deb Warmintgon, Principal
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