The end of a school year is a bittersweet time, one that celebrates accomplishments, looks back to acknowledge those people who have made a difference in our lives, and a time for saying goodbye.
This year we have many things to celebrate that will be recognized at our end of year assembly on Thursday.
We look back and say thank you, and we look ahead with anticipation. This is a current tentative list of next year’s staff for your information; this is still subject to change with new registrations. We know all people joining us will be welcomed in true Avon fashion.
Avon PS Staff 2017 2018—tentative
We look forward to a year ahead full of growth and learning and fun, but in the meantime, have a wonderful summer!
District Track and Field
On June 21st ten Avon Eagles soared over to Goderich to tear up the track and jump into new accomplishments against 500 other athletes from all across our school board. They represented Avon with smiling faces, supportive cheers and congratulatory handshakes with their fellow competitors at the conclusion of their events.
Jonas placed 2nd in triple jump, and 3rd in both the 1500m race and the 800m race. Carlos placed 1st in the 100m race, 2nd in the 400m race and 3rdin ball throw. Meg placed 4th in the 400m race. Sophia placed 1st in long jump, Mia placed 4th in triple jump and Jensen placed 5th in triple jump. Olivia placed 1st in long jump, 4th in the 100m race and her 8.73m jump in triple jump not only earned her a first place ribbon, but also broke the previous record of 8.66m! Congratulations to Olivia who tied for the 2nd place overall junior girl!
Good luck to all the grade 6’s as they continue their athletic careers at Northwestern or Central in the fall. The cross country running coaches will be looking for a whole new nest of Avon Eagles (grades 2 to 6) in September as another sporting season begins!
A few things to remember for September:
Avon PS Schedule 2017 – 2018
9:05-9:10 Entry to School
9:10-9:50 Period 1 (40 min)
9:50-10:30 Period 2 (40 min)
10:30-11:10 Period 3 (40 min)
11:10-11:30 Nutrition Break
11:30-11:50 Recess
11:50-12:20 Period 4 (30 min)
12:20-1:00 Period 5 (40 min)
1:00-1:40 Period 6 (40 min)
1:40-2:00 Recess
2:00-2:20 Nutrition Break
2:20-2:50 Period 7 (30 min)
2:50-3:30 Period 8 (40 min)
3:30-3:40 Dismissal
In June, our Grade 6 students will be visiting their new schools, students are consolidating their learning with field trips, and we have our annual Avon swim time for Grades 2-6 at the Lions Pool, this year on June 26th.
For those parents new to Avon or in Kindergarten, placements for next year are posted on the first day of school. We will be sending out a quick update of the school organization later in June.
Thanks! Barbara Alken
Track and Field
Athletes raced through finish lines during steaming heat. They jumped into sand pits through heavy humidity. They threw balls through air thick with waves of pollen. What a day it was for Grade 3 to 6 students on Track and Field Day! Students set personal challenges, pushed their limits and accomplished new physical feats. They cheered on other athletes, and sometimes supported others on the last leg of the race. It was a day filled with happy faces soaring with school spirit. Congratulations to the athletes who emerged as our school champs: Harry R. and Paige T. (PeeWee), Blair S. and Maya E. (Bantam B), Sam P. and Heidi T. (Bantam A), Jonas S., Meg F. and Olivia M. (Junior). These athletes and 25 others will be representing our school at the South Region Meet
on June 13 at Stratford Central and depending on their success there, may be able to compete in the District meet on June 20 in Goderich. A huge thanks goes out to all the Avon parents and Avon alumni who volunteered their time to make our Track and Field Day possible.
Bell Times for 17/18
Avon’s entry and dismissal times will be changing in September, 2017. They will be moving to 9:10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. That means that the first bell to come in will be 9:05, and supervision on the playground will begin at 8:55 am. The rest of the schedule will shift 10 minutes forward, and we will send this out to all families in the September newsletter.
Our Huron Perth Student Transportation Services has made this change alongside a dozen other schools in AMDSB for different reasons. In the case of Avon PS, it was to allow for time to split bus routes between schools, something that our Transportation Services have not been able to do with increased traffic within Stratford in the morning.
Sending Food
Remember to only send food within our allergy guidelines. No peanuts, tree nuts, kiwi fruit, fish, seafood, raw or undercooked eggs or anything made from these products. Thanks for your help keeping everyone safe and healthy!
Scents at School
We have members of our school community who are very sensitive to scents. If you are coming into the school (volunteering, parent teacher interviews, performances, etc.) please be aware and refrain from using perfume. Thank you!
Safety First!
Just a quick update for this month to let you know that our painting on the ground at the entrance, parking lot, and bus drop off will be redone this summer. We’re hoping to make it very visible and make it easier for everyone to know what specific zones are for. Please keep in mind that supervision on the playground in June still begins at 8:45 am. There is no adult supervision on the yard before that time, and students should be arriving no earlier than 8:45 every morning. Thank you!
“Paint Generations”
Ms. Steven’s students have been participating in an enriching, creative experience as they paint with seniors at McCarthy Place. They are looking forward to a final lunch together in June to celebrate the connections made through art.
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School Council is to help improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.“
Thank you to everyone for your support of our fundraising initiatives this year. We were very pleased with our Cozyn’s planter fundraiser—we hope those who participated are enjoying some very pretty flowers! You will notice heavy machinery in the playground this summer as our track is built—thank you for all your support!
Avonfest is on June 8th from 5:30-7:30 pm, we hope to see you all there!
Used Book Sale
Ms. Yantzi’s Grade 6 class organized a Used Book sale to raise funds for an author visit to their class. They are very excited to invite R.J. Anderson, author of “A Pocket Full of Murder” and a Stratford resident, to Avon.
Sun Safety Awareness
Did you know that June 5th to 11th is National Sun Awareness week? To mark this occasion, we are going to be bringing Avon students sun safety tips all week.
Starting with…What is the best form of sunscreen for your face? A wide-brimmed hat of course! Always remember to wear your hat if you’re going to be outside in the sun, not only will it help keep you cool, it will prevent your face and neck from harmful sun exposure. Stay Sun Safe!
A reminder to please be sure to apply sunscreen at home before coming to school, instead of sending it to school with your children. Many sunscreens have strong scents that can adversely affect others.
Thank you!
YMCA News
Hello YMCA Families,
As the school year starts to come to a close, we would like to remind you of some important dates. June 9th and June 30th are PA Days, if you are looking for care on these days please contact Alenka Watson or Krystle Linden at 519-273-9622 or [email protected] or 519-271-0480 or [email protected]
Ready Set Go Registration is under-way and filling up for JK/SK children for July and August. For more information, you can contact Ashley Rose at 519-271-0480 or [email protected].
Friday June 16th is our annual YMCA Dance- A-Thon – all proceeds go to the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign!
Thank you to everyone for another great school year – see you in September.
“Zinc Saves Lives”
Evan in Grade 6 and his brothers have a message to share:
We are collecting used AA batteries to help save the lives of children in developing countries.
This program is called “Zinc Saves Lives” and it is awesome for two reasons: one is that it reduces the amount of electronic waste going to landfills and the other is that it helps save children’s lives. Every AA battery contains the same amount of zinc that is needed to save the lives of 6 children. Zinc deficiency is a global health challenge—2 billion people worldwide are affected and more than 450,000 children die every year from complications associated with zinc deficiency.
There is a bucket in the front hall for the collection of any used AA batteries. Thanks for your support. Together, we can make a big difference and save lives.
A Gift To Honour
We know that some of you like to give gifts of appreciation at this time of year. Perhaps you’re wondering what gift to give to that special teacher, custodian, bus driver, principal or secretary?
The Foundation for Education has a unique answer for you!
With a ‘Gift to Honour’ you can choose to make a donation in someone’s honour
and 100% of that donation will be designated for a project within your own school.
Here is the process:
1. Fill out the Gift to Honour & Tax Receipt Information. This can be found at your school or online.
2. Attach a cheque for your chosen amount. The cheque must be made payable to the Foundation For Education who will issue a charitable tax receipt for the full amount.
3. Return this Form and cheque to your school to be forwarded to the Foundation.
4. Pick up a Gift to Honour card at the school and fill out for the child to hand to the person receiving the card.
June 2017
June 1 – Subs
June 3 – Used Book Sale!
June 5 – Grade 3 Swim to Survive
June 6 – Pizza, Grade 3 Swim to Survive
June 7 – Grade 3 Swim to Survive
June 8 – Subs AVONFEST! 5:30-7:30 p.m.
June 9 – PA Day, no classes for students
June 10 – National Sun Safety Awareness Week
June 12 – Clovermead trip
June 13 – Pizza Regional Track & Field at SCSS
June 15 – Subs
June 16 – African Lion Safari trip
June 17 – Grade 6 to Camp Bimini
June 19 – Fryfogel 1 trip
June 20 – Pizza District Track & Field at Goderich DCI
June 22 – Subs Camp Menesetung and Fryfogel 2 trips
June 23 – Grade 6 visits new schools Spirit Assembly:Outdoor Fun!
June 26 – Swim at Lions Pool, Grades 2-6 9:30-12:30, Volunteer Appreciation 2:15 pm
June 27 – VON Picnic Report Cards go home
June 28 – Grade 6 – Graduation 5:00 pm in the gym
June 29 – Last Day for Students! Enjoy the summer!
June 30 – PA Day
It’s hard to believe that May is already here! A friend mentioned recently that his mother, at 100 years old, was surprised when the calendar needed to be turned over to the next month—I suppose it never does slow down!
During these last two months of the year, our students and staff will be working hard to consolidate all our learning alongside new experiences that will be sure to engage our students. The connections with literature and theatre are something that we, in Stratford, are privileged to enjoy, and we take full advantage of those opportunities. Our students in Grades 3-6 learn to set goals, persevere, and reach as hard as they can during Track and Field season. We so appreciate the time and effort our staff puts into making this event such a success every year. Grade 3 students will be taking part in Swim to Survive on three dates in early June, building a skill that truly spans a lifetime. And teachers have been planning end-of-the-year field trips that bring together a special interest of their classes, or tie into existing curriculum, bringing those learning experiences alive for all.
Sometimes we are surprised that these special events, as exciting as they are, can be difficult for some children as their familiar routine changes. Teachers will be communicating what you need to know to prepare your children for these events. If you or your children have any questions about preparations, please be in touch with your child’s teacher. And enjoy these months ahead!
Barbara Alken
Track and Field
May is here and so is track and field season! Grade 3 to 6 students are excited to be practicing their running, jumping and throwing skills in preparation for Avon’s Track and Field Day on Thursday, May 18th (rain date May 19th). Students are expected to participate in all events (100m, 200m, 400m and 800m races; ball throw, long jump, triple jump). These events will be interspersed with several fun, non-competitive games. Practice at school and at home to run the longer races will help everyone feel confident on the big day. All athletes should come prepared by wearing comfortable clothes suitable for physical activity, proper running shoes, sun protection, a hearty and healthy lunch and one or more labelled water bottles. Many volunteers are needed to make this amazing athletic event possible. Please contact Emelie Taylor if you are interested in helping to time races, supervise a group of students or assist with a competitive or noncompetitive event.
Athletes interested in running in the 1500 metre race may sign up on Ms.Taylor’s door by Friday, May 5th. The race will be scheduled during the week of May 9 to 12, once the number of runners is determined.
Mental Health & Kids Awareness
This week is our opportunity to promote and build awareness of children’s mental health. Green bracelets are on sale all week for $1, with all proceeds going to the Huron Perth Centre. Music and Art night for families throughout the Stratford community from 6-9 p.m. in the gym. This is a free event, with entertainment all night long. Pizza will be for sale—it promises to be a great evening!
Scents at School
We have members of our school community who are very sensitive to scents. If you are coming into the school (volunteering, parent teacher interviews, performances, etc.) please be aware and refrain from using perfume. Thank you!
Safety First!
We would like to thank all of our Avon families for keeping our pick up and drop off times safe and operating smoothly. On our worst weather day this year, with torrential rains and 60+ cars picking up students, the lot was cleared before 3:30 and everyone got home dry! We appreciate how much care you’ve taken to ensure these procedures work for our students. On the plus side, on nice weather days, we have fewer than 20 cars picking up, and the children are happy to be biking and walking home with friends.
Let’s hope for more of those wonderful spring days ahead this month!
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School Council is to help improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.“
Thank you to everyone for your support of our fundraising initiatives this year. Cozyn’s planters arrive on May 9th, pickup from 3:30- 6:00 pm. Building of the track is on schedule for this summer because of your support!
One more event to go—see you all at Avonfest on June 8th, and look for information about how you can help to make this event a great family evening as always.
Next Meeting: Monday, May 29th, 2017 6:30-7:30 pm in the library.
Remember to only send food within our allergy guidelines. No peanuts, tree nuts, kiwi fruit, fish, seafood, raw or undercooked eggs or anything made from these products. Thanks for your help keeping everyone safe and healthy!
“Paint Generations”
Over 5 weeks in May and June, students from Mrs. Steven’s Grade 5 class will be taking part in a wonderful opportunity at McCarthy Place Residence. Small groups of students will participate in painting lessons with residents, developing creative skills and relationships. A final lunch together in June will top off this unique experience!
From Rain to Sun!
We’re moving from rainboots to sunscreen, sometimes in the same day! Please be sure to apply sunscreen at home before coming to school, instead of sending it to school with your children. Many sunscreens have strong scents that can adversely affect others. Thank you!
YMCA News
Registration forms for the YMCA’S Summer JK/SK Ready Set Go program are available. To register your child, for more program information and cost please contact Ashley Rose, Jenn Davis or Krystle Linden at 519- 271-0480.
The last three PA Days of the year are fast approaching on May 8th, June 9th and June 30th. If you need care on any of these days please register at your child’s Before and After School Program or call Alenka at 519- 273-9622.
Babysitting Course
Offered by a Red Cross qualified instructor 40193 Blyth Rd, Blyth, ON
Date: June 30th
Time: 9:00am – 3:30pm (Pack a lunch) Cost: $55.00 plus tax
To register and make payment online: https://campscui.active.com/orgs/EmergencyServicesTrainingCentre. For inquiries please call or email us at
Phone: 226-523-9500 ext. 200
Email: [email protected]
Explore, Discover, Create – Galbraith Optimist Day Camp for Kids
This is a traditional Day Camp Experience for children ages 5-13. Join us at our Open House on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday June 4, 2017 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to explore our camp, meet the staff and ask any questions that you may have.
The Galbraith Optimist Day Camp program includes:
For more information or to register visit our web site www.galbraithcamp.com or email [email protected] or call 59-616-2267 (camp phone active after May 1st, 2017)
]]>Celebrating Diversity at Avon!
On Tuesday, March 21st, our entire school recognized World Down Syndrome Day, in honour of our student and classroom volunteers who have Down Syndrome.
This was an important day of awareness to celebrate diversity in all of our learners. Staff and students wore their colourful, funky, mismatched socks to celebrate the differences in all of us. The day began with a whole school yoga event led by yoga instructor and Avon parent Lisa Stacey, with the help of several of Ms. Taylor’s Grade 3 students. We chose yoga because our student leader for this day is an extremely flexible, bendy person! The gym was a mass of colour and smiles, and you could have heard a pin drop as everyone searched to find their inner yogi!
Check out the video summary of this day at http://yourschools.ca/always-learning/socks- yoga-inclusion-world-syndrome-day/
Safety First!
Did you know that the Avon parking lot is reserved for staff use only? We have just enough parking spots for our staff and the volunteers who help in the school on a regular basis, and people who work in the building need to be able to park here.
Parents who are walking their children into school (Kindergarten parents are great at this!) need to park on a side street and walk into the building. The entire parking lot is for drop off only, no parking or stopping for parents at arrival or dismissal times. This means 8:45-9:00 a.m., and 3:00-3:30 p.m.
Even better, consider walking or riding bikes to school with your child today, or teaching them how to do this independently!
Rainy Days
The rainy weather is upon us! With this change in temperature and weather, we face challenges with mud and water on the field. Drainage is much better than in previous years, but the volume of water is sometimes just too great.
It is best if you send children with rubber boots and splash pants so that their clothes can be protected. Also, extra socks are a great idea!
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School Council is to help improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.“
Last month we had an interesting visit from one of our trustees, Alyson Kent, who discussed board priorities and strategic plans with us. If you would like further information on these topics, check out the board website at www.yourschools.ca
Next Meeting: Monday, April 24th, 2017 6:30-7:30 pm in the library
Enhancing our Natural Playscape
Avon has a number of young nature enthusiasts! Young insect lovers have been lifting the rocks at the labyrinth to search for tiny creatures. In the process, many rocks have been moved and it has been a lot of work to maintain the stone pathways that were so carefully thought out and placed by many of Avon’s current Grade 5 students.
We have decided to create an insect research grounds by putting rocks in one of the existing long grass areas to attract insects and their student researchers to the area. To make this exciting new area possible, we need your help to provide rocks. They should be approximately the size of a lunch bag. Please contact Emelie Taylor if you can donate some rocks!
Scents at School
We have members of our school community who are very sensitive to scents. If you are coming into the school (volunteering, parent teacher interviews, performances, etc.) please be aware and refrain from using perfume.
Community Closet
If your child has outgrown any clothes, shoes, or boots that are still in good condition, please consider donating these clean items to Avon’s Community Closet! All donated items stay at school and go to friends at Avon who can benefit from their use. Please see Mrs. Allen or Ms. Smith if you have items to donate. Thanks!
Looking Ahead
As the weather improves and the ground dries up, Grade 3-6 students will be getting outside to prepare for track and field. Ms. Taylor is looking for parent volunteers to assist with our Track and Field day on Thursday, May 18th (raindate Friday, May 19th). Please contact her if you are able to help with this worthwhile athletic event.
YMCA News
Hello Again
Registration forms for the YMCA’S Summer JK/SK Ready Set Go program will be available by the end of April. For more program information and cost please contact Ashley Rose or Jenn Davis at 519-271-0480. There is a PA Day coming up on May 8, 2017. If you need care on this day please register at your child’s Before and After School Program or call Alenka at 519-273- 9622.
Calendar of Events
April 4 – Pizza Chess Tournament Gr 4, 3/4 to Huron Perth Agriculture/Water Festival today
April 6- Subs Treasure Island Workshops Gr 4, 5 7 8
April 11 – Pizza Kiwanis Festival
April 12 – Kiwanis festival
April 13 – Subs Kiwanis Festival
April 14 – Good Friday No classes, May Hot lunch orders open today!
April 17 – Easter Monday No classes
April 18 – Pizza
April 20 – Subs
April 21 – May Hot lunch orders finish today!
April 24 – Humane Society Visit, School Council 6:30 p.m.
April 25 – Pizza
April 27 – Subs,Caribou Math practice 3:30-4:15 pm, Celtic Animal Workshop in Mr. Ford’s room
April 28 – Spirit Assembly
April 30 – School Council presents: Learning About Technology evening for parents on May 1st! 6-7:30 p.m.
May 2 – Huron Perth Centre evening promoting Mental Health through the Arts hosted at Avon PS in the evening
Natural Learning!
Over the past seven years, our Avon community has embarked on an ambitious project to transform our large, 3+ acre yard.What was once a barren middle school field is now home to hundreds of trees, long grassy areas,hills, gardens, a labyrinth, and gathering places. Four years ago we built the shade structure,last year the playscape was ready, and this summer our running track will be going in. It is thanks to your tremendous support that this space is becoming the creative,interactive place that it is. Whether you have offered time or resources, the combined effort to keep momentum going with these individual projects have pushed forward a vision that is bold and child-focused.Avon Eagles will be soaring down a permanent 200+m track next year if our efforts continue!Our students have become heavily invested in these projects, coming up with creative ideas to raise funds and design spaces. We see young children following butterflies and examining insects, tending gardens and testing climbing skills.
We invite you all to come and experience this space as it comes alive again in the spring. Your children will be exploring and challenging themselves with new learning at every turn!
Barbara Alken
Safety First!
With some nicer weather upon us, it is wonderful to see so many Avon students walking, biking, and riding scooters to school! Please remind your children to always stick to routes where they are crossing streets with a crossing guard. The cross walks where they can cross busy streets accompanied by a crossing guard are: Forman Ave. at Hibernia St.John St. at Douglas Ave.Huron St. at Huntingdon Ave. Huntingdon Ave. at Cawston St.
Remember to only send food within our allergy guidelines.No peanuts, tree nuts, kiwi fruit, fish, seafood, raw or under cooked eggs or anything made from these products.Thanks for your help keeping everyone safe and healthy!
Avon Eagles can help to get people all over the world talking about World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st! We can do this if we all wear #lots of socks! but not just any socks…brightly coloured socks, long socks, printed socks, 1 sock, 2 different socks… even 3 socks for 3 chromosomes. World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), observed on 21 March every year, is a global awareness day which has been officially observed by the United Nations since 2012. Down Syndrome International (DSi) encourages our friends all over the world to choose their own activities and events on WDSD to help raise awareness of what Down syndrome is, what it means to have Down syndrome, and how people with Down syndrome play a vital role in our lives and communities. Recognizing World Down Syndrome Day helps to create a single global voice for advocating for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down syndrome. Each year the voice of people with Down syndrome, and those who live and work with them, grows louder. “The aims of World Down Syndrome Day are to promote awareness and understanding, seek international support, and to achieve dignity, equal rights and a better life for people with Down syndrome everywhere.” Muttiah Muralitharan, Record breaking Sri Lankan cricketer, Patron – Down Syndrome International “Activities and events held on World Down Syndrome Day can have a tremendous impact, showcasing the abilities, talents and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome. I encourage you all to tell the world what you are doing to celebrate this important day.” Liam Neeson OBE, Oscar nominated actor, Patron – Down Syndrome International It’s easy enough to participate – just stick your hand in your sock drawer and see what comes out! Bright and colourful socks, striped, mismatched, long – just as long as you’re making a statement. Show your colours and get involved with World Down Syndrome Day. Take pictures wearing your cool socks and hashtag #RockYourSockWDSD2017 and post on media pages for everyone to see the love, support & awareness you are raising. When someone asks you, “Why are you wearing those crazy socks?!!!” tell them you are wearing them for someone you know with Down syndrome!
Roses are red, Violets are blue, Avon loves baked goods, and running races, too!
The Valentine’s Day bake sale was a wild success! Yummy treats were sold before each nutrition break and after school on February 14th to countless eager customers. DJ Creations (Devan and Jasmine) contributed to the event by selling their festive finger knitted scarves. Altogether, just over $500 was made towards our 200 m outdoor track! Thank you so much to all the families and staff members who provided delicious home baked goodies, and to all the children and parents who supported this event by purchasing yummy treats. Hats off to Ms Taylor’s class, and Ms Houston’s grade 3’s, who read and followed recipes, learned meaningful money skills and absolutely shone with their customer relations skills!
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School council is to help improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.”
Next meeting: Monday, March 27, 2017, 6:30 – 7:30 pm in the library
Scents at School
We have members of our school community who are very sensitive to scents. If you are coming into the school (volunteering, parent teacher interviews, performances, etc.) please be aware and refrain from using perfume.
Community Closet
If your child has outgrown any clothes, shoes or boots that are still in good condition, please consider donating these clean items to Avon’s Community Closet! All donated items stay at school and go to friends at Avon who can benefit from their use. Please see Mrs. Allen or Ms. Smith if you have items to donate. Thanks!
Inclement Weather
The weather at this time of year can change very quickly and conditions on our playground shift with the weather. It is very helpful for children to have an extra pair of pants and socks in their backpacks in case there is a wet or muddy spill outside. Remember that temperatures are also moving quickly up and down throughout the day. It is best for them to have their backpacks filled to be prepared for whatever will come!
YMCA News
Hello YMCA Families,We hope everyone who made it to our Pre Registration for 2017-2018 last month had a positive experience. We will be able to confirm spaces soon with a phone call and confirmation on your September deposit.If you have interest in our before and after school programs and would like to inquire, please contact Jenn Davis or Ashley Rose at 519-271-0480 or by email at [email protected] and [email protected] If you have interest in our YMCA PA Day Programs, please contact Alenka Watson at 519-273-9622 or [email protected]
Thank you
March Break Camp – March 13 – 17th
Come celebrate everything winter has to offer. Each day will feature indoor and outdoor adventures, including snowshoeing and skating (weather permitting), crafts, games and more! Bring warm outdoor boots and clothing and your own nut free lunch and snacks! Limit of 30 children per day.
9:00 am – 4:30 pm daily
$35/day or $160/week
Pre-registration required.
To register, contact Kayla Droog: 519-393-5315, [email protected]
]]>When I was a Grade One teacher, students would often come in after the Christmas Break convinced that they were moving on to the next grade. To them, a new year meant a new beginning, and that must mean moving up a grade! We think a lot about new beginnings at this time of year, looking back on the year that passed and looking forward to the year ahead. There is a danger in spending too much time in the past/future paradox in that we can forget to be aware of the present!
One of our strategies for helping students to make good choices moment to moment is to help them to be mindful of their emotions, their surroundings, and their actions. Mindfulness is a large skill set that takes time and learning to develop, but there are many ways to build those skills in our daily lives. Schools all over the USA and Canada have started to incorporate mindfulness practices, and early results are promising. The article below from Today’s Parent talks about some of those practices and what they look like in school.
At Avon, we are always considering how our physical, social, and emotional well-being support our students’ readiness to learn. We are finding that some of these practices do make a difference in helping students to self regulate more effectively, always a positive step forward! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/sarah-rudellbeach-/8-ways-to-teach-mindfulnesstokids_b_5611721.html and http://www.todaysparent.com/family/educatio n/mindfulness-for-kids-learning-emotionalregulation-in-school/.
Barbara Alken
Safety First
Thank you to all our parents who have made accommodations and are parking on the side streets to pick up their children. It has made a huge difference to our parking lot—as predicted, we have lost quite a few spaces due to snow removal. Remember, parents can no longer park in the parking lot when dropping off or picking up at entry and dismissal times.
If you find circling in the parking lot to be a time-consuming endeavour at the end of a busy day, you might want to consider parking on a side street as well. On many days, you might just be on your way sooner parking and walking in, and with fewer frustrations maneuvering in such a tight space with so many other vehicles.
Readers Needed
If you have an hour or two to spare in the week, we would love to have you come in to read with some of our students, or listen to them read. Every single experience reading will move children toward reading success, and your support with this is such an important part of the process! We’d love to have you, for whatever time you can offer— grandparents are welcome!
Allergy Guidelines
Remember to only send food within our allergy guidelines. No peanuts, tree nuts, kiwi fruit, fish, seafood, raw or undercooked eggs or anything made from these products. Thanks for your help keeping everyone safe and healthy!
Scents at School
We have members of our school community who are very sensitive to scents. If you are coming into the school (volunteering, parent teacher interviews, performances, etc.) please be aware and refrain from using perfume.
Winter Clothing
We check weather conditions regularly and shorten recess or keep students indoors on days when the wind chill is –20 or below.
Inclement Weather
Coming from the snowy north of the AMDSB, I was used to having snow days, but the one we had before the Christmas Break surprised us all! We are very glad that the call was made early in the morning to close all the schools in AMDSB with students’ safety a priority. Please remember that this is an exception, and we will normally be open even when buses are not running. You can always find out about inclement weather conditions at:
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School Council is to help improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.“
Next Meeting: Monday, January 30th, 2017 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the library
Fundraising 7:30-8:00 p.m.
Fundraising
Look forward to Little Caesar’s Fundraising coming home this week, just in time for those mid-winter blahs! Also, our parents group is sponsoring a Glow in the Dark Dance Party on January 19 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. We hope you come out and enjoy the event!
YMCA News
Hello! We hope everyone had a warm and safe holiday spent with your loved ones. Our school age programs are in full swing, enjoying our outdoor time in the snow. Please remember to pack warm clothing and appropriate outdoor attire as we are outside in the morning and afternoon. YMCA Pre-Registration will be coming up soon. We will be running our preregistration at the individual schools this year to help with the hustle and bustle, we will be supplying the dates in the near future so please stay tuned.
]]>Over the past month I have been looking at different websites and articles about how to talk to children about their days at school. I hear from many parents that their children do not volunteer a lot of information, and I thought there must be some good ideas available.
What was interesting, through this reading, was that there is a lot of information out there on asking questions that will elicit more complete answers, but the more reading I did, the more uncomfortable I felt. When I re-read some of the articles, I realized that there were some subtle, and not-so-subtle, messages being delivered by the questions being asked. Essentially, our questions are reflecting our values. If we ask about negative experiences, our children will learn that is what we want to hear, and they will look for those experiences to share at the end of the day. If we ask about other kinds of experiences, the same will happen. It becomes clear, then, how easily the perception of a day’s events can be shifted by how we approach the day.
Finally, I found one article about a family that takes this into account, and intentionally asks questions that reflect what they want their children to look for in a day. Just 3 questions, but they frame their dinner conversations on a regular basis:
The authors’ intention is to encourage their children to challenge themselves enough so that they do fail, and learn from their efforts to approach a problem a different way next time. Looking for opportunities to be kind and brave are empowering and positive, without negating the fact that there will be times in life when we need to be brave, and need to step in with compassion and empathy for others. I encourage you to take a look—it’s a good read!
Barbara Alken
Avon PS Staff 2016 2017 (revised)
JKA/KA: Mary Ford-Pleil, Jillian Siebert
JKB/KB: Elaine Jones, Allison Simpson
JKC/KC: Jeanette Tessmer, Jennifer Jarvis
1A: LeeAnn Mark
1B2A: Susan Iredale
1C2B: Kate Smith
2C3A: Terri Houston
3B: Emelie Taylor
3C4A: Kim Thomas/Melissa Heffer
4B: Cathy Meadows/Jennifer McCann
4C/5A: Melissa Pearce
5B: Susan Steven
6A: Jeremy Ford
6B: Jennifer Yantzi
Music/Prep: Mark McIntosh
French/Prep: Cindy Spendiff
SERT: Brett Melton
Educational Assistants: Kelly Herlick-Riehl, Christine Brindley (STRIVE), Stacey Gates, Theresa Guy
TRA: Christine Allen
Secretary: BettyAnne Christie
Custodians: Martin Allcott, Lloyd Renecker
Vice Principal/Prep: Leasa Barclay
Principal: Barbara Alken
VON Program at Spruce Lodge
Beginning this week, small groups of Grade 6 students will be visiting Spruce Lodge every week to work with some of the people with Alzheimers who come for the day-away program. This is a wonderful opportunity to build understanding of another important sector of our community.
Avon School Council
“The Purpose of a School Council is to help
improve student achievement and to enhance the accountability of the education system to parents.“
Our first School Council meeting took place on September 26th. We had many people present, and welcome their participation—all parents are welcome at any time!
Our School Council Co-chairs for this school year are Kaisa Schneider and Andrea Allen. Secretaries Sara Moir and Amy Ollson.
One of our discussion topics at the meeting was concerning fundraising. We would like to meet to discuss fundraising right after school council on a regular basis. If you are interested in helping out with just this aspect of School Council, please join us at 7:30 following the regular meetings.
Minutes from all meetings can be found on our school website www.avonmaitlandschools.ca/avon
Next Meeting: Mon., Oct. 24th
6:30-7:30 pm in the library
Fundraising 7:30-8:00 pm
Calling All Three Year-Olds!
Our registration date for all children eligible for Kindergarten in September, 2017 is November 21st. Please contact BettyAnne in the office to set your appointment time and pass the word to other families!
Before and After School Programs
As part of an on-going commitment to make the school day as seamless as possible for our families, each family will be receiving an information sheet in mid-October regarding Before and After School care. Families interested in before or after school programs for their four and five year olds, and possibly older children in the upcoming school year, should complete an on-line survey by November 30, 2016. The link to the survey will be found on the Board website starting mid-October. We appreciate your assistance as we determine the feasibility of offering such programs. Should you require a paper copy, please contact the school after October 14th
YMCA News
Hi everyone, September has settled down and we are well on our way through another great school year. By now you would have noticed the YMCA Before and After School Program around your child’s school. For more information about this program please contact the YMCA at 519-271-0480 and ask for Ashley, Lori or Alenka.
Thanksgiving is coming up and we wish you all a happy and safe holiday.
Thank You,
Ashley Rose RECE,
YMCA Child Care Supervisor
Monthly Spirit Assemblies
Each month our school comes together in the gym in cross-grade teams. This is an excellent way to build community and foster understanding across grades and divisions. Grade 6 students lead these assemblies and students work together to “fill each others’ buckets”!
Pick up and Drop off
Our pick up and drop off timing is working out very well this year. The majority of our students are arriving on time for the first bell at 8:55 am and ready for the start of classes at 9:00 am. We do still have some students arriving before supervision begins at 8:45 am. We have many students here in before and after school programs, and cannot have any students arriving before 8:45 am. We ask for your help making sure this start time is strictly enforced.
One more note about pick up procedures for our students in Grades 1-6. To ensure the safety of all of our students and minimize the unannounced adults in the building, we ask that all parents and caregivers wait outside the front doors to pick up their children. If you have a specific reason to wait in a different location, please contact the office and speak with the Principal.
Volunteer Update!
We had a wonderful response to our call for volunteers in the last newsletter, but could still use some more people to read with children. If you’re interested, and can offer a short time, please contact the office.
School Cash Online
We have 60% of our families registered with School Cash Online, one of the highest rates in the AMDSB! It is very simple to register, and you have the option of putting money into your school cash account or paying directly from your bank account. Either way, it will make getting your hot lunch orders and other payments done so much more efficient—please take a moment and get registered!
Ready, set, go!
Soon Avon’s cross country running team of 87 runners will be kicking up their heels and putting their best foot forward at the Patrick Cook Memorial Meet on Tuesday, October 4th. We hope for a good turnout of cheering parent spectators. This same team will compete at the Regional Meet at Wildwood on October 6 (rain date Oct. 7). The coaches are still looking for more parents with a police check to volunteer for both of these worthwhile athletic events. Please notify Susan Steven, Emelie Taylor or Cathy Meadows if you can help out. Athletes who qualify for the District Meet on October 13 (raindate Oct. 14) will be notified after the Regional Meet. Thanks to the many families who are supporting athletics at Avon by encouraging their children to participate on the cross country running team.
Alice in Wonderland is on its way!
Mr. McIntosh has been hard at work with his team auditioning students for our Operetta this year—it promises to be a great event! Congratulations to all students who demonstrated great courage and confidence coming out for auditions!
Taking Care of our Playground
The sign says it all…just please do not put what you pick up in the composter—it is for fruits and vegetables only!
]]>And so another year begins! I hope that everyone in our Avon community had a wonderful summer, certainly the weather cooperated beautifully to make a host of summer activities possible. It is so rewarding for all of the staff at Avon to prepare for this new school year, looking forward to the exciting learning that will be taking place and anticipating the building of our classroom communities.
I purposely use the term “classroom community” because this is the first and most important priority for all classes. Students who may never have been in a class together are learning about one another, understanding each other’s strengths and weaknesses, preferences and quirks. Being together in a classroom for 6 hours a day is about setting up the very best learning environment, and we know that this needs to be a safe place where everyone is included and a part of the community, a place where we work out issues together and find solutions that allow us to grow and learn. And where we learn that there are ways to learn and work together that are productive, and those that aren’t. Figuring all of that out is truly what September is all about, and all of our teachers will be working with students to build understanding as a foundation for the best kind of learning environment.
Welcome to all our students and families—old and new—and look forward to a tremendous year ahead!
Barbara Alken
Avon PS Staff 2016 2017
JKA/KA: Mary Ford-Pleil, Jillian Siebert
JKB/KB: Elaine Jones, Allison Simpson
JKC/KC: Jeanette Tessmer, Jennifer Jarvis
1A: LeeAnn Mark
1B2A: Susan Iredale
1C2B: Kate Smith
2C3A: Terri Houston/Cindy Spendiff
3B: Emelie Taylor
3C4A: Kim Thomas/Melissa Heffer
4B: Cathy Meadows/Jennifer McCann
5A: Susan Steven
5B6A: Jeremy Ford
6B: Jennifer Yantzi
Music/Prep: Mark McIntosh
French/2C3A
Prep: Cindy Spendiff
SERT: Brett Melton
Educational Assistants: Kelly Herlick-Riehl, Christine Brindley (STRIVE), Stacey Gates, Theresa Guy
TRA: Christine Allen
Secretary: BettyAnne Christie
Custodians: Martin Allcott, Lloyd Renecker
Vice Principal/French/Prep: Leasa Barclay
Principal: Barbara Alken
Important Information not to be missed
This year, many classes will be benefiting from technology in their classes in order to pass on classroom information, share their learning, respond to each others’ posts, and connect to the world through the internet. Please read the AMDSB guidelines on computer use sent home today carefully, and check out the AMDSB website for further information. Some classes are also using student planners, which will have spaces for correspondence between home and school. Later this week, a Family Handbook will be going home with each student. This handbook outlines procedures and policies that will help each student and family to work effectively within our system like the safe arrival program, bringing toys to school, allergy information, medication, and so much more. Look out for the blue cover.
Sabrina’s Law and Anaphylaxis
Sabrina’s Law and Anaphylaxis In January 2006, Sabrina’s Law came into effect. This Law requires school boards to have emergency procedures in place to deal with incidents of anaphylaxis and to provide training for all staff. With support from the Perth District Health Unit and the Huron County Health Unit, school principals provide to their staff, annual training in the administration of EPI-Pens to treat anaphylactic reactions.
In cases where a student is anaphylactic, parents/guardians are expected to provide an EPI-Pen(s) for their child to carry with them at all times during the school day. Parents/Guardians must also work with the school to develop an Individual Medical Management Plan that outlines emergency procedures for their child.
In accordance with Sabrina’s Law, all schools have been provided with two generic EPI-Pens. These EPI-Pens are being provided to support schools in responding to a medical emergency for an anaphylactic student for whom the school has an Individual Medical Management Plan and Emergency Procedure in place.
Also, in accordance with Sabrina’s Law, schools must administer an EPI-Pen when a student is suspected of suffering an anaphylactic reaction even if no Individual Medical Management Plan exists.
If you are aware that your child is allergic to epinephrine or if you have any concerns, it is suggested that you contact the school principal.
Ryan’s Law and Asthma
As you may be aware, Ryan’s Law, 2015, was recently passed by the Ontario Legislature. This piece of legislation is an important step to support the well-being of students with asthma in Ontario schools. If your child has asthma, we ask that you immediately contact the main office at your school to provide information about your child’s asthma medication. With your permission, your child will be allowed to carry his/her asthma medication while at school. The Ministry of Education website has resources on asthma that can be found at: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/healthyschools/anaphylaxis.html
As a best practice and to support your child, please let the school know if your child has a medical condition so that the school is aware and can keep this information on file. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Monthly Spirit Assemblies
Each month our school comes together in the gym in cross-grade teams. This is an excellent way to build community and foster understanding across grades and divisions. Grade 6 students lead these assemblies and students work together to “fill each others’ buckets”!
Safety At Avon – Be Watchful Behind The Wheel!
Last year saw many changes to our parking, drop off and pick up procedures. Although space is still a challenge, when procedures were followed, we found that all students were picked up within 5 minutes of the dismissal bell, even on the worst weather days!
We ask all families to follow these guidelines to ensuring our restricted parking space is available to staff working at the school and cars are able to move within the parking lot during drop off and pick up times.
Two Crossing Guards are on duty at the Huntingdon and Huron intersection from 8:00-9:00 am and 3:00-4:00 pm.
Supervision is provided at the front of the school in the morning and afternoon, and at the Junior doors as of 8:45 am. Please time your arrival to school for 8:45-8:55 am, as there is no supervision before that time.
Allergies At Avon
For the safety of all our students, and due to severe food allergies Avon is a Peanut and Tree Nut Sensitive Zone. In addition, fish, seafood, kiwi and raw egg products or anything made from these products (e.g., mayonnaise) should not be brought in student lunches.
Individual classroom teachers will be communicating with parents about allergies specific to their classrooms. Please note and follow the guidelines set out for your child’s class. And please remember – Avon is a fragrance free zone as well.
You will have found Student Emergency Contact Forms and the Anaphylaxis Plan going home on Tuesday. Please review carefully and provide any updated allergy information.
Our Fabulous Volunteers!
We are so very fortunate to have such a vital group of volunteers who contribute in so many ways to our school! We know that without you, our program and experiences for our children would not be nearly as rich!
In order to ensure the safety of all of our students, every person who comes to volunteer at the school must have a Vulnerable Sector Police Check completed. If you already have one on file, an offence declaration must be completed every year. These will be sent out to you shortly. The process for these police checks has been streamlined considerably—please contact the police station and have this ready if you are hoping to volunteer at some point in the year.
We would be very excited to welcome new volunteers to our school, to read or review key concepts with students. If you are interested, please fill out the form in this newsletter and send it back.
Avon School Council
School Councils provide a forum for making parents’ concerns heard, for learning about curriculum, and how we can work together to support students’ learning. We invite all Avon parents and community members who wish to get involved to attend.
Our initial meeting and election of officers is
Monday, September 26th
@ 6:15 pm in the Library
If you are interested in running for one of the elected positions (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary) on our School Council, please complete the school council parent self-nomination form below and return to the school no later than Monday, September 19th. If an election for any of the positions is necessary, elections will be held on Monday, September 26th at the school.
School Cash Online
You may remember a survey that went home last year about using an online payment method. The responses throughout AMDSB were overwhelmingly positive, and we are introducing an online payment system this fall. It is very simple to register, and you have the option of putting money into your school cash account or paying directly from your bank account. Either way, it will make getting your hot lunch orders and other payments done so much more efficient—please take a moment and get registered!
Ready, set, go!
Cross country running season is upon us. Students in grades 2 through 6 are invited to practice their running skills in preparation for the Patrick Cook Memorial Cross Country Run at SERC on Tuesday, Oct. 4. Interested athletes are encouraged to join this rewarding, fun-filled activity by meeting Mrs. Steven and Ms. Taylor on Days 2, 4 and 5 by the shed first recess beginning Friday, Sept. 9. Outdoor running shoes and a positive attitude are the only requirements. More details about the Pat Cook Run will be sent home closer to the date. The Regional Meet will be on October 6 (raindate Oct 7) and the District Meet will be on October 13 (raindate Oct 13), and both are held at Wildwood Conservation Area.
Lost and Found
Every year we collect a mountain of clothing and personal belongings in the lost and found at school. One way to prevent this cost to your family is to make sure everything including your child’s backpack is labelled. You can also take advantage of our ongoing year round fundraiser with Mabel’s labels through this link: http://www.campaigns.mabelslabels.com/ just click on Avon School under fundraiser.
YMCA Program
Welcome back to school! The first PA Day for the children is coming up on September 23, 2016. For details and how to register you can contact Alenka Watson at the YMCA by phone, 519-271- 0480 or through her e-mail, Alenka_Watson @ymca.ca.
We are excited to be able to continue to provide a Before and After School Program for your school community again this year. For information and availability of space in our Before and After School Program please contact the YMCA Child Care Department at 519-271- 0480 or through e-mail [email protected], [email protected] or
Thank you
Ashley Rose RECE,
YMCA Child Care Supervisor
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Presented by: Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW Gary Direnfeld is an internationally known social worker with more than 33 years of experience working with parents, teens and young children. He has a parenting column in the Hamilton Spectator and had hundreds of appearances on radio and television shows as a guest expert.
]]>Presented by: Gary Direnfeld, MSW, RSW Gary Direnfeld is an internationally known social worker with more than 33 years of experience working with parents, teens and young children. He has a parenting column in the Hamilton Spectator and had hundreds of appearances on radio and television shows as a guest expert.
Thursday May 12, 2016 7:00- 8:30 pm Downie Central School (4384 Perth Line 20, RR#2 St. Pauls) Refreshments and child-care provided
Help us ensure we have enough seats and refreshments. Please register at [email protected]
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