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Dear Banff Trail School Families,
In my last message, I discussed the importance of initiating connections with your child’s teacher, to set everyone up for a successful year of learning.  Previously, I have also spoken to the importance of continuing the learning at home in whatever way you can (such as in critically examining advertising, demonstrating curiosity about our city, examining how our city roads are organized, etc.).  This year, our Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation includes a closer examination of the stories and changes in nature that come with the solstices and equinoxes, that represent the introduction of new seasons.  Tomorrow, Saturday, September 23rd, is the fall equinox, which can lend itself to many discussions around the home.  For example: What are some changes in the animals of our city/province/country/world that happen as autumn sets in?  What changes happen in temperature?  Which outdoor activities end, and which begin, at this time of year?  What are the French words for some of these sports or activities? Do we have any celebrations in our home during the fall season (birthdays, religious events, family traditions, etc.)?  We are all very busy, but modeling a sense of curiosity, wonder, and conversation with your children will go a long way in nurturing a lifetime of happiness and success.  Connected to the theme of ongoing learning, consider this article that I came across over the summer, entitled, How to learn something new every day.
A reminder that all CBE schools are closed on Friday, September 29th, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (which actually falls on September 30th), which also aligns with Orange Shirt Day. I would encourage you to read Phyllis Webstad’s account, which includes a snapshot of her past and the origin story of Orange Shirt Day. Of special note, some of her heritage is also French.
For Your Consideration:
Virtue Leaf Winners: Congratulations to our first 2 winners in our Virtue Leaf draw—Jabari and Huttyn!  It was great to see so many great deeds being done for others around our school, with over 100 names in our first draw.  Thank you to all students for all the kindness shown around our school, both seen and unseen.
Terry Fox Run: In my last message, I indicated that our Terry Fox Run was to take place on September 26th.  However, we were contacted by the Terry Fox Foundation, who, on short notice, were able to offer us a French-language school presentation on Monday, September 18th, and we decided to take them up on this offer.  As such, we held our run immediately following this presentation, on Monday, September 18th.  Thank you to the many families who donated to this cause; I will announce totals once they are tallied, but they are impressive again this year.
Spirit Day: A reminder that our first Theme/Spirit Day of the year will be on Thursday, September 28th, where we encourage students to wear orange in recognition of the upcoming weekend’s Orange Shirt Day.
Upcoming Dates:
Wednesday, September 27: School Council Meeting
Thursday, September 28: Spirit Day: Orange Shirt Day
Friday September 29: School Closed in recognition of Truth and Reconciliation Day
Thursday, October 5: World Teachers’ Day
Monday October 9: School Closed for Thanksgiving Day
 
Have a wonderful weekend with the family,
 
Ryan Turner
Principal, Banff Trail School​