Good evening,
I hope you have had a lovely weekend so far. Please see below some updates for the coming week. As well, as I was about to send this email, I was also notified by AHS of an aditional positive case in an individual at our school. Please see the COVID-19 page of this website.
Over the last few weeks we have been noticing the toll of isolation on student well-being and ability to focus on learning – understandable. Isolation is tough for adults too. Of course, students are drawn to socialise with peers – normal at any time, but sneaking out of class is becoming a concern. We are certainly working together as a community to support students engaging in learning in the class and hoping for some settling. Usually, after extended breaks, as we had last weekend, it is often difficult for students to settle. We appreciate the ways in which you are working with us.
As we continue to engage in activities and conversations that support the community in treating each other well, we are noticing a difference in some areas. We have another opportunity to support these conversations this coming week as Wednesday February 24 is Pink Shirt Day. Please encourage your children to wear pink. Ms. White and her leadership students have planned some events for this day, as well, our School Resource Officer, Constable Pierce will be spending time in all of our Grade 7 and 8 homeroom classes. We will be arranging similar opportunities for our Grade 6 and 9 classes in the coming weeks. We appreciate all of the ways in which Constable Pierce supports our school. I am sure that the warmer weather will help us all.
I had mentioned in my last weekly message that the Parent Council had organised a Telus Wise virtual conversation for parents. The link was sent out also. While it was unfortunate that no additional parents were able to attend, we look forward to continuing to offer virtual opportunities on a regular basis. Constable Pierce will be supporting our April meeting. A link for this meeting will be available closer to the date.
Student groups have been supporting the community in celebrating Black History Month. While teachers consistently engage students in conversations related to celebrating and respecting diversity, students have displayed posters around the school with quotes from a number of civil rights activists. Twice a week, during regular notice times, particular students have been sharing over the intercom ways in which leaders have impacted them, for example, Malcolm X, Angela Davis and Black Panther Party. We continue to think of ways in which we can celebrate our diversity.
Take good care - stay safe,
Sincerely,
Mandy
