Kawartha News
December 2023
Hello December!
We have arrived at the beginning of our fourth consecutive month of learning and our final month of 2023. This is a very quick month, and it is always full of weather changes and challenges. Snowstorms appear and then the sun returns, but one thing is always certain, it is always cold. Remember to send your child in layers and ready for the elements. Students have 2 outdoor recesses a day and do not have the option to stay indoors. We avoid going outside when the temperature and windchill are below -26 and follow the recommendations of the Peterborough Health Unit.
Our students are supporting our community by participating in our annual Food Drive. We are now collecting non-perishable food items for the Salvation Army and the class who brings in the most items will get a pizza party!
We will be offering our Winter Bazaar for our second year. We are accepting donations of gently used items from your home (not clothing or stuffed animals). We will set up a market in our gym and every student will have the opportunity to purchase an item(s) to take home. All donations will be sold for $2.00 with all proceeds donated to the Peterborough Youth Emergency Shelter.
The Kawartha Heights staff wishes all our families and friends the best this holiday season. We look forward to seeing all our students’ faces on the first day back on Monday January 8th.
Stay well, stay safe, and enjoy your winter traditions.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Ostapek
Safe Schools
Our school is a diverse and inclusive community, and we take great pride in providing a safe and secure environment for all our students. Our external doors are locked at all times and we require visitors to wait outside until they are welcomed into our building. No parent will ever be allowed in our halls or into classrooms unless they have a visitor badge provided from the office. This is not meant as an inconvenience but rather as a proactive measure to ensure the safety of our students and maintain the integrity of our learning environment. I would like to take a moment to explain some of the reasons behind this policy.
Child Safety Plans:
Some of our students have specific safety plans in place to protect them from certain adults. By controlling access to our building, we can better manage who enters and exits, thus safeguarding these students and ensuring that their safety plans are diligently followed.
Medical Safety Needs:
We understand that some students have unique medical needs that require our careful attention. By monitoring and controlling access to the school premises, we can be more vigilant in managing potential health risks and responding promptly to any medical emergencies.
Challenges with Regulation:
For students who may face difficulties with self-regulation, maintaining a secure and predictable environment is crucial. Limiting access to the school helps create a controlled and stable atmosphere, contributing to the well-being of all students and promoting a positive learning experience.
We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our parents, guardians, and visitors in adhering to our security protocols. By working together, we can ensure that our school remains a safe haven for learning, growth, and discovery.
Follow Edsby for our master calendar updates:
December 1st - Wear a winter hat spirit day.
December 4th - Bazaar donations until Dec. 18th.
December 8th - Wear your Jammie's spirit day.
December 11th - Food drive until the 19th.
December 15th - Dress for a vacation spirit day.
December 18th - All donations for bazaar due to the school.
December 20th - All food donations will be picked up.
December 19th & 20th - Winter Bazaar - all items are $2.00.
December 21st & 22nd - Sing along with carols.
December 22nd - Last day of classes & wear green and red spirit day
Kinder Corner
- There seems to be many sick kids in our kindergarten rooms which means that sickness will continue to spread. Please keep your child at home if they are not feeling well.
- Dress your kids for the weather and always pack an extra pair of gloves for those days when the snow is wet.
- Don't forget to switch out your child's extra pair of clothing that is kept at the school for some warmer options.
School Council
Our School Council is a wonderful team of parents who have wholeheartedly committed themselves to enhancing the educational experience for all our students.
One of the remarkable aspects of our School Council is their unwavering dedication to raising funds that directly support various programs and experiences outside the traditional classroom setting. Their efforts ensure that our students have access to a wide array of opportunities that contribute to their development.
If you have any questions you can find the minutes from our meetings on our school website.
Nut Free, not just peanuts
No Chewing Gum
Scent Sensitive
Please be aware, exposure to fragrances, cologne and scented
products can cause allergic reactions, asthmatic symptoms,
migraines and general discomfort for students and staff.
Hot Lunch
We will continue to offer toonie pizza every Thursday. Subway is offered on Tuesday's through SchoolCash Online. School council will be selling popcorn in the new year and keeping with the toonie theme. Stay tuned for more information in January.