Principal Newsletter March 2024
In this issue
- Principal’s Message
- Catholic School Council
- Aubrey Noronha: Colour Blind
- Screenagers Under the Influence: Vaping Drugs & Alcohol in the Digital Age
- Early Dismissal and High School Parent-Teacher Interviews
- Dress Up Days
- Upcoming First Time Eligible OSSLT Writing Session
- Scents in the Building
- Athletics
- Travel for Credit: Civics and Careers or Grade 11 English
- St Patrick’s Indoor Plant Sale
- Semester 2 Assessment Schedule
- Important Dates
Quick Links
Parish Links
Immaculate Heart of Mary
613-733-9636
Trustee for Zone 8 - Alta Vista - Gloucester - Southgate Wards
Mark Mullan
Chairperson
(613) 841-5775
mark.mullan@ocsb.ca
Principal’s Message
Last Sunday marked Palm Sunday, the start of Holy Week. This is the most sacred time of the year for Catholics, and we have been preparing through our Lenten practices: prayer, fasting and almsgiving. We will enter the Triduum where we remember the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This year, Easter comes early and I wanted to wish our Catholic families a Happy Easter! May you be filled with Gratitude and Hope!
I would also like to wish our Muslim brothers and sisters a happy fasting and Ramadan Mubarak!!!
A quick reminder to our 7/8 families to ensure their children are coming to school dressed for the weather. Our Intermediate students are expected to be outside for half of the lunch period and as such they must be dressed for the weather. Students are not permitted to return to their lockers halfway through lunch (when we make the switch from outside to inside OR inside to outside) and as such are asked to bring all they need for the lunch period at the start of lunch. Another reminder that all 7/8 students MUST remain on school property throughout the day, including lunch time!
This Easter weekend, our Europe Trip participants will embark on our first trans-atlantic trip in years: Best of luck to all of our travellers and have a fun/safe adventure!!!! We look forward to seeing your pictures and hearing your stories.
Mme Al Koura
Catholic School Council
A quick reminder of the following date for our last meeting of the year:
Monday, May 13th, 2024 - Virtual
To join the May meeting virtually please email the school to get a link for the meeting.
Our Council is continuing its fundraising efforts and THANK YOU for supporting our school. Please, consider buying your gift cards through Fundscrip. Money raised helps to contribute funds to various Clubs/Teams within the School, Teacher Wish Lists (supplies) for the Classroom and Special Events at the School.
FundScrip (www.fundscrip.com) is a fundraising program that asks you to pay for your everyday purchases with gift cards bought through the FundScrip program. Invitation code is HZYTCL or by clicking on https://www.fundscrip.com/support-a-group/HZYTCL. There are over 250 retailers to choose from.
It doesn't cost you anything extra
You don't have to change where you shop or what you buy
Your everyday purchases add up to make a difference very quickly
Please consider buying one gift card of $25 for gas or groceries or a card used as a gift to give every month.
You have the following options to pay:
Online Banking Bill Payment - FREE
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) - FREE Requires completed application form and void cheque sent to FundScrip to be activated.
Interac Online - earnings reduced by $0.85 per transaction for those with accounts at the following financial institutions: RBC Royal Bank; BMO Bank of Montreal, ScotiaBank and TD Toronto Dominion
Credit Card (earnings are reduced by 1.99%)
Aubrey Noronha: Colour Blind
St Patrick’s High School Catholic School Council was proud to present Aubrey Noronha: Colour Blind on Tuesday, March 19th at 7:00 pm.
Aubrey encouraged students, staff and parents alike to consider their conscious and unconscious biases and these biases have influenced their behaviours and choices. He walked us through the evolution of the word "racism" and what "systemic" really means. He challenged us to reconsider our hesitation to called out what is racism and what is not and presented practical steps and examples on how to transform ourselves from being a ”non-racist” to an “anti-racist”. Aubrey’s humour and ability to respond to his audience made his visit with the Irish family an enriching experience. We look forward to continuing our work with Mr. Noronha!!!!!
Please visit his website: https://www.hellohope.ca
Screenagers Under the Influence: Vaping Drugs & Alcohol in the Digital Age
St Patrick’s High School and the SPH Catholic School Council are inviting you to a FREE screening of “Screenagers Under the Influence: Vaping Drugs & Alcohol in the Digital Age”, the last of three movies. The screening will be taking place VIRTUALLY, on Thursday, May 22nd starting at 7:00 pm.
“Join Screenagers filmmaker, Delaney Ruston as she picks up her camera once more to examine the impact of our digital age on teens’ decision-making in relation to substances such as vaping, alcohol and drugs.”
Please see the website for more information.
https://www.screenagersmovie.com
We hope to have you amongst us!
Early Dismissal and High School Parent-Teacher Interviews
A reminder that Thursday, April 4th is an Early Dismissal day for Grades 7-12 due to our 9-12 Parent Teacher Interviews. Students will be dismissed at 1:30 pm to allow for the Interviews to begin promptly at 2:00 pm. High School parents, please check your emails as the link to book an interview with your child/ren’s teacher(s) has already been sent.
A reminder to review alternative bus routes with your child/ren in case the busses do not arrive on time.
Dress Up Days
Please note that the following days are designated as Dress Up Day (non-uniform days) for the remainder of the school year.
Monday, April 29th
Monday, May 27th
Monday, June 17th
Girls’ Retreat
As part of our International Women’s Day celebrations, our Girls’ Retreat took place on March 7th at the Derry Byrne Centre. Students in grades 9-12 celebrated the intersectionality of female identity and allyship. Once again, we were engaged in activities to challenge our biases, especially towards other women, as well as activities to build each other up and commit to positive relationships.
Thank you to Afrodeez, Ms. R. Cleming, Mr. Guillermo and Mr. Kajoba for helping make this day a reality!
Upcoming First Time Eligible OSSLT Writing Session
We are coming up to the First Time Eligible OSSLT writing session and here is a link that parents can access to better understand what their children can expect on the OSSLT.
Some Grade 10 students with last names A - G may potentially be affected by the celebration of Eid. These students would be the Tuesday and Wednesday writers. Students are asked to connect directly with their VP ASAP, so that accommodation to the test writing day can be made.
Students who are in the school play during the time of the OSSLT will receive a new letter reflecting a day that has less conflicts.
Our SPH student success website is live - parents can refer to the literacy page for FAQ's and resources.
Scents in the Building
We have noted an increasing amount of scented products (e.g. body spray, perfumes, spray deoderant) being used in the hallways. We would like to remind our community that we have individuals with scent-allergies and sensitivities that make this practice very harmful to their well-being and safety. We are asking students to minimize the use of scented sprays in the hallways. Please take a moment to discuss this with your child/ren
Athletics
The Jr. Girls Volleyball team is off to a great start to the season going 5-0 for first place in the league. All of their early morning practices and hard work is paying off. Best of luck for the remainder of the season and playoffs.
Travel for Credit: Civics and Careers or Grade 11 English
Would you like to earn your Civics/Careers credit this summer, in English or French, while travelling to Toronto and New York City for the first few weeks in July? If so, visit Edutravelforcredit.com or see your Guidance Counsellor. Act quickly, though, as spaces are limited.
Would you like to earn your grade 11 English credit this summer travelling to such destinations as Akwesasne, Kitigan Zibi, and Winnipeg (and area) to visit Indigenous sites, museums, and landmarks? If so, visit Edutravelforcredit.com or see your Guidance Counsellor. Act quickly, though, as spaces are limited.
St. Patrick’s Indoor Plant Sale
Attention Plant Parents! St. Pat's will be having a spring indoor plant sale at various times throughout May and June. If you can help with donations of small indoor house plants or cuttings please contact Kathryn.Robinson@ocsb.ca
Semester 2 Assessment Schedule
A continuous reminder that the June Assessment/Exam Schedule is already available. We ask that families plan any vacations or early departures around these dates. Students are required to be present for their RSTs and final assessments/exams.
Semester 2 RST Period June 4 - 19, 2024
Second Semester Final Assessment/Exam (Grades 9/10-12) June 20 - 26, 2024
Important Dates
Please mark your calendars!
Good Friday - No School
March 29, 2024
Easter Monday - No School
April 1, 2024
H.S. Parent-Teacher Interviews
April 4, 2024
7-12 Early Dismissal
April 4, 2024
**NEW PD Day date
April 8, 2024
**New OSSLT Dates
April 9-15, 2024
Dress Up Day
April 29, 2024
Dress Up Day
May 27, 2024
Dress Up Day
June 17, 2024
Happy Easter Irish Family!
Principal Newsletter- February 2024
Principal’s Message
Second semester is well underway and we have had a BIG February to kick it off!!!! I am so proud to share the many highlights of this past month. Please join me in congratulating all of our students and staff who made this past month so vibrant and energizing!
VP Sheila Cousineau is away until mid-April - while on leave, retired VP John O’Connor will be taking over her duties. We welcome Mr. O’Connor to the Irish Family - even if only for a short period of time.
I am proud to share that St Patrick’s High School has TWO Director of Education Commendation nominees: Mrs. Sheila Cousineau and Ms. Linda LoFaro!!!! We are so proud of you and thank you for your unwavering dedication to our school community. Winners will be announced at the end of March!
A special request to families to review with your children the uniform required to attend St Pat’s, in particular the bottoms: black DRESS pants, black CARGO pants, black SKIRT, or KILT. Students are not permitted to wear jogging pants, leggings, yoga pants, or jeans in place of their uniform bottoms. Please visit the Top Marks website if you need to order uniform pieces.
Whether traveling or staying close to home, I would like to wish you and your loved ones a safe and relaxing March Break.
Mme Al Koura
Catholic School Council
A quick reminder of the following date for our last meeting of the year:
Monday, May 13th, 2024 - Virtual
To join the May meeting virtually please email the school to get a link for the meeting.
Our Council is continuing its fundraising efforts and THANK YOU for supporting our school. Please, consider buying your gift cards through Fundscrip. Money raised helps to contribute funds to various Clubs/Teams within the School, Teacher Wish Lists (supplies) for the Classroom and Special Events at the School.
FundScrip (www.fundscrip.com) is a fundraising program that asks you to pay for your everyday purchases with gift cards bought through the FundScrip program. Invitation code is HZYTCL or by clicking on https://www.fundscrip.com/support-a-group/HZYTCL. There are over 250 retailers to choose from.
It doesn't cost you anything extra
You don't have to change where you shop or what you buy
Your everyday purchases add up to make a difference very quickly
Please consider buying one gift card of $25 for gas or groceries or a card used as a gift to give every month.
You have the following options to pay:
Online Banking Bill Payment - FREE
Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) - FREE Requires completed application form and void cheque sent to FundScrip to be activated.
Interac Online - earnings reduced by $0.85 per transaction for those with accounts at the following financial institutions: RBC Royal Bank; BMO Bank of Montreal, ScotiaBank and TD Toronto Dominion
Credit Card (earnings are reduced by 1.99%)
CSPA
CSPA is hosting an event on March 20, 2024, please see the details below for inclusion in the school Newsletter.
Respectful Conversations about Race
Date: Wed, Mar 20 • 7:00 PM EDT
Aubrey Noronha: Colour Blind
St Patrick’s High School Catholic School Council is proud to present Aubrey Noronha: Colour Blind on Tuesday, March 19th at 7:00 pm. Child-minding will be available while parents can enjoy the talk in our cafeteria. Light refreshments will be available as well as door prizes.
Aubrey's engaging talk will discuss conscious and unconscious bias, the evolution of the word "racism" and what "systemic" really means. We will learn practical steps how to transform ourselves from being a ”non-racist” to an “anti-racist”
Aubrey Noronha is a recognized Safe Schools, Mental Health and Anti-Racism Speaker who believes in the possibility of a safer and more emotionally connected school culture.
https://www.hellohope.ca
Screenagers Under the Influence: Vaping Drugs & Alcohol in the Digital Age
St Patrick’s High School and the SPH Catholic School Council are inviting you to a FREE screening of “Screenagers Under the Influence: Vaping Drugs & Alcohol in the Digital Age”, the last of three movies. The screening will be taking place VIRTUALLY, on Thursday, May 22nd starting at 7:00 pm.
“Join Screenagers filmmaker, Delaney Ruston as she picks up her camera once more to examine the impact of our digital age on teens’ decision-making in relation to substances such as vaping, alcohol and drugs.”
Please see the website for more information.
https://www.screenagersmovie.com
We hope to have you amongst us!
April Professional Development Day (PD Day) - Date Change to April 8, 2024
The following messaging was sent to families last week, but in case you missed it, please make note:
The Professional Development Day, initially planned for Friday, April 26, has been rescheduled. The new date for the PD Day is Monday, April 8, 2024, pending Ministry approval.
Why the Change?
We rescheduled the PD Day because there will be a solar eclipse in Ottawa on April 8, coinciding with our school's dismissal time. There are safety concerns for our students and staff who will be outside at this time because looking directly at the sun during the eclipse can cause damage to one's eyes.
The Board of Trustees Approved the Change
The Board of Trustees has approved the date change and wanted to inform staff and families about it as soon as possible so you can plan accordingly. We have requested the PD day change to the province and are awaiting final approval. We are confident the request will be approved, as it has been for other school boards across the province.
St Patrick’s Day
Most years, St Patrick’s Day falls during March Break and as such is not celebrated here at the school. With St Patrick’s Day falling on Sunday, March 17th, our Student Council has proposed extending the celebrations to Monday, March 18th - our first day back from the March Break. As such, we have approved a St Paddy’s Day Spirit day where students will be invited to wear St Paddy’s Day accessories with their proper uniform. Leading up to the March Break we will have a classroom door decorating contest, Spot the Leprechaun activity and on the Monday after March break we will have morning trivia and a photo booth at lunch. Wishing everyone an early Happy St Patrick’s Day!!!!!
Special Olympics Ontario - School of the Month
Congratulations to our Special Olympics Ontario St Patrick’s Bocce team for receiving a School Program Recognition Award!!!! Join me in celebrating this beautiful group of athletes!!!
Black History Month
February was an inspiring month focussed on celebrating Black Culture, Black Joy and Black Successes through the OCSB theme of ‘Boldly Me, Diverse We:Shaping Our Collective Future’. Staff and students participated in a variety of experiences that connected them not only with our history, but also with all that our community has to showcase the amazing contributions of our Black brothers and sisters.
Every day, we started off with interesting facts or mini-lessons created by student leaders within the BSA that highlighted in their own words significant moments, people or culturally relevant topics for each week’s theme.
On February 22nd, our SPH BSA students and invited guests spent the day at the National Gallery of Canada. They had a private tour of the gallery’s several beautiful pieces and then participated in a “Meet the Artist” talk with Deanna Bowen who shared her work “The Black Canadians (after Cooke)” which is currently installed on the gallery’s South facade. A special thanks to David Kajoba, our Black Grad Coach, for making this day possible. It was a fantastic day for all involved!
On February 27th, Stacey Martin shared her powerful story of hope, determination, tenacity, resiliency and creativity with our student body. In her words, “As a Black woman entrepreneur, my mission is to inspire students by providing representation that fuels their belief in achieving extraordinary heights.” And that she did!!!!
As always, the highlight of our BHM celebrations is the student-led Student Showcase. Our BSA, alongside our various student associations and dance teams/troops gave us over an hour of >>>>>>>>>>>
Have a Heart Day
On February 14th, members of our Indigenous Student Association as well as Mrs Williams’ English class, attended the Have a Heart Day event at the Meridian Theatre at Centrepointe.
“Have a Heart Day is a child and youth-led reconciliation event that brings together caring Canadians to help ensure First Nations children have the opportunity to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy, and be proud of who they are.”
PINK Shirt Day
On Wednesday, February 21st, SPH staff and students were invited to wear pink shirts to take a stand against bullying. All ages have the power to create and make change, and elevating the voices of ALL begins by advocating for kindness and inclusivity. As with many of our campaigns, the drive falls on ONE day, ONE week, ONE month, but the goal is that this becomes part of our daily routines so that kindness and inclusivity remain a year-round commitment. Staff and students had a chance to fill out a commitment heart on what they hope to do (everyday) to encourage behaviours/mindsets that combat bullying.
Athletics
From February 8 - 10th, the Varsity Boys Basketball team traveled to southern Ontario to participate in the All Ontario Catholic Classic tournament. This tournament has been running since the 1960s and invites the top Catholic school from each athletic association across the province to participate in it each year. The team used the opportunity to prepare themselves to defend their city championship, and make a run at returning to OFSAA for the second year in a row. While in the Niagara region the team was also able to take in one of Canada's most recognizable features, as well as one of the world's natural wonders in the horseshoe waterfalls. The team went 1-1 in the tournament, only losing to eventual finalists, Notre Dame (Brampton) by nine points. The trip was a good bonding experience for the team, while opening their eyes to one of Canada's natural wonders.
Guitar/Vocal Music Workshop
On February 27th, the board held its first workshop day focused on guitarists, bassists, and vocalists. This event provided a valuable opportunity for our high school music students to enhance their current knowledge and connect with fellow musicians from across our school board. After welcoming all of the students together, they were split into their respective groupings in order to learn new techniques and styles in the morning. Each student then chose a song from the ones available that they wanted to focus on for the afternoon, all of varying styles. Once they did, they were put into groups made up of some guitars, basses, and vocalists. Each group worked collaboratively to learn the song and perform it before the day was over. All of the groups performed with resounding success, showing how much they learned throughout the experience, all while meeting some new friends in the process!
International Language Credit Program
As students are choosing courses for September, a reminder of the International Language Credit program as an option where up to 3 credits can be earned in a language other than English or French. Essentially, classes are held starting in the Fall, on Saturdays (one is offered two times a week) in both in-person and virtual formats.
On behalf of the Continuing Education department, all information and the registration process are available by clicking on this link.
Grade 12 Visual Arts Show
The Grade 12 Visual Arts students had a busy first semester creating impressive art, which they displayed at the Grade 12 Art show in December. Spectators were amazed at the level of talent, and the students were so proud to showcase their work. Some of these students have also been preparing their portfolios for post-secondary programs in the Arts.
St Pat’s Christmas Concert
On December 20th, our school community came together for our much-anticipated Annual Christmas Concert, a delightful showcase of our students’ talents and creativity. The evening featured a variety of performances by our high school and intermediate music students, and the vibrant melodies of our board jazz band. It was a wonderful evening, where families and friends gathered to celebrate our students' hard work and dedication. The high school Concert Band and R&B Band filled the air with festive tunes and showcased their mastery of pieces they had diligently practiced throughout the semester. Our intermediate students, including the Concert Band and Glee Club, returned to the stage, impressing everyone with their remarkable progress in such a short time. The board jazz band, composed of talented students from various high schools, delivered a fantastic performance that demonstrated their versatility across different musical styles while also featuring many different soloists. The students are looking forward to the many more performances and opportunities that lie ahead in the second semester, including our Spring Concert!
St. Patrick’s Indoor Plant Sale
Attention Plant Parents! St. Pat's will be having a spring indoor plant sale at various times throughout May and June. If you can help with donations of small indoor house plants or cuttings please contact Kathryn.Robinson@ocsb.ca
Italy 2025
Italy 2025! Is your child interested in traveling? Is your child currently in grades 9-11? St. Patrick's High School is once again partnering with EF Educational Tours to bring a wonderful opportunity to our school! Your child will have the chance to spend 9 days traveling through Italy in April 2025. Please email Ms. Bellefeuille at katie.bellefeuille@ocsb.ca with any questions and for more information. Andiamo!
Semester 2 Assessment Schedule
An early reminder that the June Assessment/Exam Schedule is already available. We ask that families plan any vacations or early departures around these dates. Students are required to be present for their RSTs and final assessments/exams.
Semester 2 RST Period June 4 - 19, 2024
Second Semester Final Assessment/Exam (Grades 9/10-12) June 20 - 26, 2024
Important Dates
Please mark your calendars!
Last Day of Classes before March Break
March 8, 2024
March Break
March 11-15, 2024
First Day of Classes after March Break
March 18, 2024
School Council Event - Aubrey Noronha
March 19, 2024
Good Friday - No School
March 29, 2024
Easter Monday - No School
April 1, 2024
**NEW PD Day date
April 8, 2024
**New OSSLT Dates
April 9-15, 2024
Have a wonderful and safe March Break!
Letter of Attendance Requests -- 48 Hours Notice Required
Please be advised that due to the volume of requests being received , the Main Office will require 48 hours to complete a letter of attendance . If you require a letter confirming the attendance of your child at St. Patrick's High School, please contact the office via email at patrick.high@ocsb.ca or call us directly at 613-733-0501. When making the request, please include your child's full name and grade as well as your contact information.
School Uniform Policy
SCHOOL UNIFORM POLICY
The school uniform at St. Patrick’s High School is both a source of pride and identification for the school. By registering at St. Patrick’s, a student is agreeing to uphold the uniform regulations from the time they arrive at school until the end of the school day, including the lunch break. Students who fail to comply with school uniform expectations may be sent home to change into the school uniform or they may be assigned a consequence.
Uniform clothing is ordered through TOP MARKS, our supplier. Orders are placed through the company, and clothing is sent directly to students’ homes by courier.
Our Supplier information is below:
Top Marks www.topmarks.ca
St Patrick’s High School code PAT02
Toll free 1-800-667-7105 (customer service)
**School Uniform consists of garments produced by TOP MARKS for St. Patrick’s High School. All tops will bear a St. Patrick’s logo. All bottoms will bear the TOP MARKS tag.**
UNIFORM INCLUDES
black pants
Tartan skort
black skort
black cargo shorts,
white polo shirt / white blouse or white long or short sleeve shirt with St Patrick’s school logo
St. Patrick’s V-neck sweater, Crew neck sweater, or rugby shirt are permitted; older versions of the uniform (i.e. the St. Patrick's Intermediate hooded sweatshirt) are no longer part of the uniform
7/8 physical education uniform includes black gym shorts and a grey t-shirt and is mandatory for all grade 7 and 8 students.
PLEASE NOTE
solid black tights or leggings may be worn under uniform skirts or kilts; pants, jeans or sweatpants are not permitted under the kilt
REMINDERS
students may wear a plain white T-shirt under a uniform shirt or blouse; wearing a hooded sweatshirt under a school long- or short-sleeved shirt is not permitted
girls may wear a plain white ladies’ camisole under a uniform shirt or blouse; (plain white implies no writing, no logos, no diagrams)
camisoles may not be worn with sweater cardigans unless under a TOP MARKS shirt or Blouse;
skirts and kilts must be worn at a respectable length and such that undergarments are not visible;
Pants and shorts are worn such that undergarments are not visible;
shirts, blouses, and sweater must be worn so shoulders and torsos are covered;
Hats and bandanas are not permitted;
the last Monday of each month (with the exception of June) may be designated a “Dress Up Day” to support a designated charity. Students are reminded to exercise good taste in the selection of their “dress up” apparel.
every Wednesday is designated St. Patrick’s Spirit Day. Students may wear their St. Patrick’s school team or club shirt, with proper uniform bottoms;
students must be in proper uniform for any off-site excursions or activities unless otherwise approved by Administration;
Clothing or accessories that are deemed to be gang related in the opinion of Ottawa Police are unacceptable and not allowed in the school;
any clothing or accessory that is deemed to be inappropriate in the opinion of the Administration is unacceptable and is not allowed in the school.
Wearing clothing with culturally insensitive messages or images is not in keeping with our Catholic value of promoting a safe, caring and inclusive school community. All students are encouraged to wear respectful clothing at all times when on school property or on a school related activity.