Karen McKissick named one of the top female safety leaders in CANADA!

It is with great pleasure that we announce Karen McKissick, Coordinator of Safety Programs has been named one of the top female safety leaders in CANADA! The 2023 COS Top Women in Safety awards recognize 66 female safety leaders who are shattering glass ceilings (safely, of course!). 

Karen began her career at TBCDSB in 2013 and has been instrumental in keeping our sites safe, efficient and compliant! 

If you know Karen, you know she is passionate about all things Health and Safety!  From her creative safety Halloween costumes, engaging presentations, safety-week trivia/games, classroom presentations, her enthusiastic disposition and contagious enthusiasm, Karen is truly deserving of this incredible recognition. 

Throughout her career, Karen has faced many health and safety challenges in the world of education - the big one being COVID-19. As we all know and remember, as a Board we had well established COVID-19 protocols, protecting us and keeping our students and staff safe. The amount of time that went into creating safety precautions during an incredibly stressful time is daunting. Looking back, we are thankful to Karen for her guidance, the hours and hours spent with the Health Unit and the Ministry in meetings, and of course, the many debriefs with Senior Team.

From first aid to training, in dealing with occupational health and safety within our classrooms and in our schools, Karen can be found helping create safe spaces and safe processes for our staff and students. 

Please join us in celebrating and cheering on THE BEST (in our opinion) female safety leader in Canada! 

Way to go, Karen!

Thank you for all that you do! 

To see all top female safety leaders, click here. 

School Climate Survey 

Dear Families,

Our upcoming school climate survey for students in grades 4-12 will be taking place in April.

The survey will ask respondents to comment on matters about bullying, equity, inclusivity, and harassment at school in accordance with the Ministry of Education policy #144 “Safe Schools”.

Students in grades 4-6 are asked to complete the Our School Elementary Survey while grades 7-12 students complete the Our School Secondary Survey. The survey will be open to respondents between April 3rd to April 28th, 2023. Students will complete surveys in class. Student participation is voluntary, however all students are encouraged to participate. All responses to the Our School Student Survey are confidential and will help to enhance the student experience.

Parents and Guardians are also encouraged to complete a school climate survey called the TBCDSB Parent/Guardian Survey. This survey link will arrive in the coming days by letter and board email. Parents who require any assistance in completing the survey are asked to contact their child’s school as arrangements can be made to complete the survey at the school.

Parents/Guardians who complete the survey, will have the opportunity to select a separate link to enter a draw for participation prizes. This will protect the anonymity of the participants.

If you have any questions regarding the survey, please contact your child’s school principal, view the Frequently Asked Questions (below) or Paul Mackett, the board’s district contact for the school climate survey at 625-1540.

FAQ

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE CLIMATE SURVEY AT THUNDER BAY CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD?
The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board is conducting the survey to collect student identity information and feedback on student experiences. The Climate Survey will be conducted at all schools.

This information is used to:

DO OTHER SCHOOL BOARDS IN ONTARIO COLLECT STUDENT IDENTITY DATA?
Yes. For example, Lakehead Public Schools, Ottawa Catholic School Board and Waterloo Catholic District School collect student identity data. The Ministry of Education supports this important endeavour. Student identity data will help the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board know our students better. This will include questions about student identities such as racial/ethnic background, religious belief, disability, etc. The data can be used to shed light on gaps that need to be addressed for access, achievement and well-being.

WHEN WILL THE CLIMATE SURVEY BE CONDUCTED?
The Climate Survey will be conducted at all Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board’s elementary and secondary schools from April 3-28, 2023. Students in grades 4-12 will have the opportunity to complete the survey during class time, with the support of their classroom teacher. Parents will receive a link to complete the survey during the April 3-28, 2023 window.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE THE CLIMATE SURVEY?
It will take approximately 30 minutes to complete the survey.

DO PARENTS/GUARDIANS/CAREGIVERS HAVE TO CONSENT FOR STUDENTS TO COMPLETE THE CLIMATE SURVEY?
Completing the survey is voluntary. Parents, guardians or caregivers and students can choose to opt out. Should you choose to opt out, please inform your child's school Principal. We encourage parents/guardians/caregivers to discuss the survey with their child(ren).

DO I NEED TO ANSWER EVERY QUESTION?
The Climate Survey is voluntary. The parent/guardian/caregiver or student who is participating may choose to skip a question if they do not wish to provide an answer. However, it is important to note that the higher the completion rate, the more accurate and reliable the information will be for decision-making.

HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE STUDENT CLIMATE SURVEY?
For more information you can also contact the principal or vice principal at your child’s school. Contact information is available here if you have a specific question.

WHAT IF I CAN’T ACCESS THE CLIMATE SURVEY ONLINE?
You can make arrangements to complete the survey in a private area at your child's school. Students in Grades 4 -12 who are unable to complete the survey in school with the existing support or accommodation have the option of completing it with their parents/guardians/caregivers at home.

HOW WILL RESPONSES BE KEPT CONFIDENTIAL?
The Climate Survey student data is confidential. This information will be held in strictest confidence and kept securely in an electronic database. Access is restricted to authorized personnel. A confidential database will hold the responses. Personal information is collected under the authority of the Education Act, RSO 1990, c. E-2, and will be used in compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, RSO 1990, c. M-56. Parent survey information is anonymous and cannot be identified.

HOW WILL SURVEY DATA BE USED?
The information collected will be used for educational and research purposes to further equity of access and outcomes. Student data will be collected from all the schools at this Board; individual responses will be combined for reporting purposes. Reports will discuss trends and themes in schools, not individual experiences. Should you have any additional questions, please call the principal or vice principal of your child’s school. Additional information is available on the website, or by calling the Board school climate survey lead, Paul Mackett 625-1540.

Cold and Flu

Dear Families,

The cold weather has arrived and we all are spending more time indoors.  

With close contact between us, the level of flu, COVID-19, RSV and a variety of other illnesses/diseases continue to circulate within our community. 

What can we do to keep ourselves and one another safe?

• Stay home when sick! 
• Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces, including schools
• Use the Ontario Schools Screening tool and following instructions provided
• Seek medical attention when necessary
• Wash your hands, frequently
• Cough into your elbow
• Get all vaccines you are eligible for

TBCDSB continues to be a mask friendly space! Schools continue to supply masks to all staff and students who want one! Hand sanitizer is available and our amazing custodians keep our schools squeaky clean! 

Thank you for continuing to consider others during cold and flu season! 
 

Family Literacy Day + Holocaust Remembrance Day

Each 27th of January, we come together to commemorate Family Literacy Day and Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Through our love of reading, we inspire those around us to learn more about the Holocaust while also raising awareness about the importance of reading and literacy. 

This year, we have shared our love of reading through a Board wide survey asking our staff for their favourite reads in four categories: Holocaust Literature, Children's Literature, Young Adult Literature, and favourite Adult Literature. 

We hope this list inspires you and your family to read something new! Click here to view the complete list!

Career Fair

We’re recruiting for various positions:

• Occasional Teachers
• Supply Custodians
• Supply Student Support Persons
• Supply Designated Early Childhood Educators
• Supply Office Staff
• Classroom Aides

Come meet us!

Date: February 1, 2023

Time: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Location: 459 Victoria Ave West (Our Board Office)

Everyone is welcome and encouraged to bring a resume

Chair & Vice-Chair Re-elected

Trustee, Francis Veneruz has been re-elected as Chair of theThunder Bay Catholic District School Board and Trustee, Dina McFarlane was re-elected as Vice-Chair.

As a mother, grandmother and retired teacher, I am an advocate of children, their well-being and their educational environments. Catholic Education is near and dear to my heart and I look forward to working alongside my fellow trustees while we continue to advocate for our children and their future. - D. McFarlane

I am truly honoured and privileged to be re-elected as Chair of the Board. Together with my fellow Trustees, we look forward to serving our community. The staff at TBCDSB continue to amaze me and I am incredibly proud of each individual who makes such a difference within our Board and community. - F. Veneruz

The election took place last night during the inaugural Board meeting.

Respiratory Viruses and Illness in our Communities.

Dear Families,

Please see the attached letter from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. 

As we enter into the wintering months and flu season, please keep the following in mind:

• Use the school screening tool before attending class.
• Clean your hands using soap and water or hand sanitizer. 
• Avoid touching your face. 
• Avoid shaking hands and use alternative greetings.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve; get rid of used tissues immediately in the garbage and clean your hands. 
• Keep a distance of 2 metres from those showing symptoms (e.g. cough).
• If you are feeling ill, stay home. 

Hold and Secure | St. Ann

Dear Parents/Guardians,

As a precaution from a situation in the school yard,  St. Ann School was placed in a brief Hold and Secure, which has now been lifted. 

Thunder Bay Police Services have determined the area is safe. A regular dismissal will commence this afternoon. 

We appreciate your understanding during these circumstances, as our students and staff are always our priority.

Thank you,

TBCDSB is not affected by CUPE

With current negotiations ongoing with many educational union groups across the Province, it is important to understand unions within Thunder Bay Catholic.  


Our Unions are comprised of:

OSSTF - Students Support Professionals and Early Childhood Educators 
OECTA - Teachers (Elementary and Secondary)
COPE - Secretaries 
UNIFOR - Custodians 


As we enter into negotiations, it is important to provide information concerning our unions, and their members. With CUPE positioning to strike Friday, this labour action will not affect our Board as we do not have CUPE employees.  


School will resume as normal on Friday, November 4th. 


We will continue to keep you informed on any impacting labour action within our Board. 
 

TBCDSB Ventilation

School Boards are optimizing air quality within schools with improved ventilation and filtration. Measures are dependent on the type of ventilation and feasibility within the context of school facilities and related building systems.

To learn more, click here!

Welcome Back! 2022

We are so excited to welcome you back!  

Last week we met with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit to discuss COVID-19 protocols for the upcoming school year. Their overwhelming message is, if you are not feeling well, please stay home. The province is taking a ”whole illness” approach to respiratory and gastrointestinal  illnesses. Responsibility is on the individual to complete the school screen and follow the guidelines. 

On the advice of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, for the 2022-23 school year, most health and safety requirements remain unchanged from the previous direction provided to school board partners at the end of the 2021-22 school year.
 
School Screening
We strongly recommend that staff, students and visitors continue to self-screen every day before attending school using the COVID-19 school and child care screening tool.  Please stay home if you are feeling ill to prevent the spread of illness.

Masking and PPE
Masks will not be required for students, staff and visitors in schools, school board offices, or on student transportation. We will actively promote respectful, welcoming and inclusive environments for individuals who choose to wear, or not to wear a mask within our school community.
 
We will continue to provide free high-quality masks for students and staff and eye protection for staff, if interested.
 
Rapid Antigen Tests
Upon request, staff and students will continue to have access to rapid antigen tests from their school office.  
 
Hand Hygiene
Hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette will continue to be promoted and integrated throughout the school day. Hand sanitizer will continue to be provided in our schools.  
 
Mental Health
Please know that our Lifeworks Employee Family Assistance Program is available to you and your family.  
  
Students will continue to have access to evidence-based and timely school-based mental health services and support. The government has made unprecedented investments to support student mental health, including over $90 million projected in 2022-23, an increase of $10 million from the previous year.
 
Enhanced Cleaning
Enhanced cleaning of cleaning/disinfecting high-touch surfaces at least once daily will continue in our schools and on buses.  
 
Ventilation 
The Ministry provided additional HEPA Units to many rooms within our Board.  We have also added improved filters and ventilation throughout our automated ventilation system.  

 
Ministry Frequently Asked Questions
Please note Public Health Ontario has updated its Frequently Asked Questions document on Use of Portable Air Cleaners and Transmission of COVID-19. 

Wishing everyone an exciting year back! 
 

Farewell and Hello to TBCDSB’s Superintendent of Business and Corporate Services!

June 28, 2022, Thunder Bay – Sheila Chiodo, Superintendent of Business and Corporate Services will be retiring this week, with over thirty years of service to the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board! Sheila will be succeeded by Brent Mandryk, the current Manager of Business Services.

Sheila began her career with the Board in 1992. As a Certified Management Accountant and a Chartered Professional Accountant, she worked within the purchasing/finance department where she successfully became the Manager of Financial Services. After the retirement of the late Tom Mustapic, Sheila became the Superintendent of Business and Corporate Services and has served in this role for the last eight years. Sheila has been a vital part of the Thunder Bay Catholic team in executing school improvement plans, negotiations, Board ventures and capital projects. We will miss Sheila’s charisma, her love for numbers, her knack for enterprise and her passion for children and their education.

I am thrilled to begin this next chapter! However, I have said it before, the people you work with become your family, and I have been so fortunate. I will miss my work family, incredibly. I am happy knowing the Board is in capable hands and will continue to grow and thrive.
- Sheila Chiodo

Her successor, Brent Mandryk, previously worked at Bombardier Transportation in the role of Director of Supply Management and moved on to the Thunder Bay Catholic School Board in 2016. Here he began his career as Purchasing Officer and currently serves as the Manager of Business Services. Brent holds a BA, a Bachelor of Education and has his Masters in Business Administration. Brent is a life-long learner with a passion for education and the betterment of pedagogy within our city.

I am humbled to be part of a strong legacy that Tom Mustapic and Sheila Chiodo have created here at the Board. I cannot thank the Trustees enough for putting their trust in me and I will continue to do my best in this new role. I am thankful for being part of an amazing team at Thunder Bay Catholic and look forward to continuing to assist the betterment of our educational environments for students, staff and families.
- Brent Mandryk

As a Board, we wish Sheila and Brent the very best on their new and exciting adventures outside and inside the Catholic Education Centre!

- 30 -

Enrolling in Virtual/Remote Learning for the 2022/23 School Year

Dear Families,

Thunder Bay Catholic recognizes that in-person learning is the best method of academia for the majority of students. However, we are also aware that some families may wish to opt-in for a remote learning model for the 2022/23 school year.

Students who were previously enrolled in Virtual/Remote learning during the 2021/22 school year will need to re-enroll in virtual/remote learning if they wish to continue in virtual/remote learning.

K-6 Elementary students enrolling into remote learning:

An elementary student requesting remote learning must take all virtual/remote classes which would entail the following:

• The ability to move to a virtual class is based on availability in the virtual class to accommodate students. Class cap sizes will be adhered to. Based on enrollment, there is a possibility of split or multiple grades.
• French Immersion and Ojibwe Language classes will not be offered virtually.
• Students start class on the first day of school, Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2022 and will follow the Elementary Schools 2022-2023 calendar
• If at some point during the school year students decide to register in conventional in-person school, it will be accommodated. However, once a move to in-person has been made, a move back to virtual will not be permitted.
• Families wishing to move to virtual learning must call St. Paul School at 683-8941 by noon, Friday May 20, 2022. Following this date, registrations into a virtual class will not be accepted.

7-8 Senior Elementary students enrolling into remote learning:

A senior elementary student requesting remote learning must take all virtual/remote classes which would entail the following:

• Parents/Guardians must opt for Remote learning by contacting their school through e-mail by noon, Friday May, 20th 2022.

bishopeqjennings@tbcschools.ca

bishopgallagher@tbcschools.ca

popejohnpaul@tbcschools.ca

• Students opting for remote learning will have a 1 time option to move back to in-person learning. Once a student has returned to in-person learning, they will not have the option to move back to remote learning.
• French Immersion, Ojibwe Language, Lifeskills and Transitions classes will not be offered virtually.
• Once registrations are collected, a decision will be made regarding how remote learning will be delivered.
• Students begin class on the first day of Term 1, Tuesday, September 6th, 2022.

9-12 High School Students Enrolling into Remote Learning Classes:

The availability of Remote course options are limited at the High School level. A high school student requesting remote learning must take all virtual/remote classes which would entail the following:

• Students must enroll in remote learning by emailing the school account stpatrick@tbcschools.ca or stignatius@tbcschools.ca by noon, Friday May, 20th 2022. A Vice Principal will contact you to make arrangements. In your email please include the student’s name and state the request for Remote Learning

• Students entering grade 9 in 2022/23 must contact their respective High School Vice Principal if they wish to enroll in Remote learning.
• Students who were previously enrolled in Remote courses during the 2021/22 school year need to re-enroll in remote learning if they wish to continue in remote learning for the 2022/23 school year.
• Once registrations are collected, a decision will be made regarding how remote learning will be delivered.
• Students start class on the first day of Semester 1, Tuesday, September 6, 2022.
• Students enrolled in Remote learning will have the 1 time option to move back to in-person learning during the semester. Once a student has returned to in-person learning, they will not have the option to move back to Remote learning.

Thank you, have a great weekend.

Welcome to Grade 7!

Welcome to Grade 7!

Grade six is coming to a close and you're on your next adventure to Senior Elementary School!

Get ready for a new environment, exciting classes, passionate educators and the beginning of new friendships and memories.

Come visit our schools, and learn more on:

Wednesday, May 11th
7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

• Bishop Gallagher,
• E.Q. Jennings
• Pope John Paul II

We can't wait to meet you and your family!

Missed Vaccinations

A message from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit:

Senior Elementary IN-SCHOOL Clinics:

Monday, March 21 - Bishop E.Q. Jennings School
An immunization clinic will be held on Monday, March 21 during school hours for those students who returned a signed consent form. Please call the Health Unit at 625-5900 with any questions.

Thursday, March 24 - Bishop Gallagher School
An immunization clinic will be held on Thursday, March 24 during school hours for those students who returned a signed consent form. Please call the Health Unit at 625-5900 with any questions.

Monday, March 28 - Pope John Paul II School
An immunization clinic will be held on Monday, March 28 during school hours for those students who returned a signed consent form. Please call the Health Unit at 625-5900 with any questions.

Students in Grades 7 through 12 who are missing vaccines offered through Ontario's free publicly funded vaccine program can now make an appointment to receive the missing vaccines at TBDHU’s CLE Coliseum Clinic, with their health care provider or at a school-based clinic. These vaccines may have been missed due to the cancellation of school-based clinics during the COVID-19 pandemic (2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years).

Please call (807) 625-5900 to speak with a TBDHU vaccine nurse regarding the vaccines needed and to make an appointment at the CLE Coliseum Clinic.

• Students in Grade 7 and 8 may be missing the following vaccines: Meningococcal Conjugate (Men-C-ACYW), Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV-9).
• Students in Grade 9 and 10 may be missing the Hepatitis B vaccine (usually given in Grade 7) and they have until August 31, 2022 to complete both doses (6 months apart).
• Students in Grades 9 through 12 may be missing the Human Papillomavirus (HPV-9) vaccine (usually given in Grade 7) and have until August 31 of their Grade 12 year to complete all three doses.
• Students in Grades 9 through 12 may be missing the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine that is usually given between the ages of 14-16 and is available to Ontarians every 10 years as a booster.

School based clinics were offered this school year to allow Grade 7 and 8 students to receive the first dose of the immunizations at school; the majority of clinics were held in the fall of 2021 and the remaining schools (Pope John Paul II, Bishop Gallagher and Bishop E.Q. Jennings) will be visited in March 2022 and dates will be available at TBDHU.COM/schoolimmunizations.

Clinics will be held in all Thunder Bay high schools prior to the end of this school year and they will be posted at TBDHU.COM/schoolimmunizations once confirmed.

As students will require a second dose of Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV-9) vaccines in 6 months after their first dose, please follow our social media channels or visit TBDHU.COM/schoolimmunizations for information about additional TBDHU clinics that will be offered in late April/May, 2022.

Changes to COVID-19 requirements in Ontario

Dear Families,

Today, Dr. Moore announced changes to COVID-19 requirements in Ontario. The following changes will be visible within our community and schools:

Effective March 21,2022

• Masks will no longer be required in indoor public settings and schools for staff, students and visitors. However, we will support any individual who would like to continue wearing PPE (Masks and Eye Protection). PPE will still be available throughout this year. We ask everyone to be respectful to anyone who continues to wear PPE
  
  
• Cohorting and Distancing will no longer be required indoor/outdoors or on student transportation
  
  
• Capacity Limits for indoor gatherings will be lifted
• Voluntary non-confirmatory COVID-19 case information will no longer be disclosed to staff and families

Important Information:

The School Screening Tool has been updated with new isolation requirements depending on vaccination status.

Hand Hygiene, improved ventilation and enhanced cleaning will continue within our schools, thank you to our incredible custodial staff who continue to keep us safe!

Absenteeism reporting will still continue until further notice.

Please be advised that rapid antigen tests will still be available for all symptomatic staff and students. These tests can be picked up at any TBCDSB office.

Staff and Students are still required to self screen daily before attending school using the school screening tool.

We know these last two years have been trying; looking back it is surreal to think, at this time two years ago, our lives changed forever. We are blessed and grateful to have so many incredible families, students and staff members throughout our Board. Thank you for your patience throughout this time, and the efforts and sacrifices you have made - they haven’t gone unnoticed.

St. Vincent School Closed Wednesday, February 8th

Dear St. Vincent Families,

St. Vincent School along Mahmowenchike Child Care will be closed tomorrow (Wednesday, February 9), due to a water main break. City crews continue to work in addressing the issue.

All classes are canceled and remote learning will not take place tomorrow.

Further updates will be forthcoming on our social media pages and website.

Thank you,

Reschedule of March PD Day

Dear Families,

We must apologize, we have rescheduled our March 4th PD Day, to Friday May 6th.

This change will be reflected in the school calendar, ensuring March 4th will be an in-person instructional day for our students.

Thank you for your understanding.

-TBCDSB

First Dose COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics at School During Instructional Time with Consent of Parents/Guardians for Kindergarten to Grade 8

Dear Parent or Guardian,

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership in helping us to keep your school open and safe for in-person learning. As vaccines are safe and continue to represent the most effective strategy to protect

Ontarians from COVID-19, TBDHU is pleased to work with your school to offer first dose clinics for students in Kindergarten to grade 8 during school hours but only with the consent of parents/guardians.

Please see the letter here, from the TBDHU.

Thank you,

A Message from the Minister of Education to Ontario’s Parents

Please find attached a letter to parents from Minister of Education Stephen Lecce and Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kieran Moore.

• English Letter, click here
• French Letter, click here

Potential Positive Case Notifications

As a short term measure, beginning Wednesday, January 19, if your child’s school receives notification from a parent/guardian or staff member of a positive COVID-19 test result from a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) or PCR test, the school will email a message to parents of impacted students and school staff.

Parents/guardians and staff members can voluntarily inform their school if their child has tested positive on a RAT or PCR test.

It is important to note that Principals will not be involved in contact tracing and they will maintain confidentiality at all times. As a reminder, the Thunder District Health Unit has advised us that most school contacts are not considered high-risk and only need to self-isolate if they show symptoms or fail the screening tool.

Please note, we will not be publicly posting these advisories.

Transition to Remote Learning - 2022

Dear Families,

With the introduction of the new Omicron variant and hospital overload, today, Premier Doug Ford announced that we are heading into a two week school closure.

What does this mean?
Sadly, this entails virtual learning for students in Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Kindergarten - Grade 8
Tuesday and Wednesday (January 4th and 5th) will be a transition day for students, staff and families into virtual Learning. Educators will communicate with students/families throughout the day.

All Grades (Kindergarten-8) will learn remotely (full day) from Thursday, January 6th, until at least January 17.

Attendance will continue to be taken daily as usual.

As stated by the Ministry, Remote Learning will be provided for all students in alignment with Policy/Program Memorandum (PPM) No.164: Requirements for Remote Learning. This PPM makes clear and very specific standards for instruction of synchronous learning so that parents and students know what to expect and there is a consistent approach across the province to ensure students are fully engaged in their learning. This will mean a synchronous learning requirement of 225 min./day for elementary students (75 minutes of asynchronous).

High School (Secondary Grade 9-12)
Tuesday and Wednesday, (January 4th and 5th) will be transition days for students, staff and families into virtual Learning. High School students will resume classes remotely (full day) beginning Thursday, January 6th, until at least January 17.

Attendance will continue to be taken daily as usual.

Class Schedule:

Period 1 - 8:40 a.m. - 9:55 a.m.
Period 2 - 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Lunch - 11:15 a.m.- 12:15 p.m.
Period 3 - 12:15 p.m.- 1:30 p.m.
Period 4 - 1:35 p.m. - 2:50 p.m.

Cooperative Education (Co-Op)
All in-person placements are suspended on Wednesday, January 5th. Co-op students will be contacted this week with further instructions.

SHSM Certifications
All in person certifications are not permitted during this time. Certifications should be rescheduled for a later date. Virtual certifications may continue.

Alternative Education and Late Leaver Teachers
Will continue with remote instruction.

Special Education - Kindergarten to Grade 12
In-person instruction for some students with special needs who cannot be accommodated through remote learning, can continue to attend school. Please note, we are awaiting N95 masks from the Ministry and may need to transition students slowly back into the classroom upon the shipment arriving. We will keep parents informed of specific transition dates.

Childcare
Childcare facilities within our schools are operated by third parties. Please check with your daycare provider for details on whether or not they are operating during the shut-down.

Devices
Educators will connect with you on Tuesday and Wednesday, (January 4th and 5th), and your school will communicate device pick-up arrangements. Please be patient with this process as we require everyone to adhere to the physical distancing measures and COVID-19 precautions and protocols.

Mental Health Resources for Students
The wellbeing and the mental health of our students and families is incredibly important during this time. For additional Mental Health resources, please click here.

Student Transportation
Because both elementary and secondary will be learning remotely, student transportation services will not be provided during this time. Student Transportation Services will resume when school begins on January 17, 2022.

Catholic Education Centre (Board Office)
The Catholic Education Centre will be closed to visitors at this time. There will be limited staff in the building and deliveries will be accepted by the Catholic Education Centre custodial staff. All Staff will continue to adhere to all TBCDSB Health and Safety Protocols when attending Thunder Bay Catholic Sites.

TBCDSB School Sites
TBCDSB sites will be closed to visitors. There will be limited staff in the schools and deliveries will be accepted by the school custodial staff. All Staff will continue to adhere to all TBCDSB Health and Safety Protocols when attending Thunder Bay Catholic Sites.

St. Elizabeth - Outbreak Declared Over

Dear Families,

St. Elizabeth’s outbreak status is now declared over.

Please see the attached letter from the Health Unit.

Thank you and Happy New Year!

Outbreak - St. Elizabeth

Dear Families,

Today we were notified by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit of an additional COVID-19 case at St. Elizabeth. The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has now declared this an outbreak. The situation meets the criteria for a school outbreak set by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education.

What is an Outbreak?

The Ministry of Education defines an Outbreak as: two or more lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases in students or staff (or other visitors) in a school with an epidemiological link, within a 14-day period, where at least one case could have reasonably acquired their infection in the school (including transportation and before or after school care).

What does this mean?

• The school is currently closed for the holidays and the impacted cohort has been previously contacted and continues to be in contact with public health.

Thank you for your patience and understanding throughout this time.

Please see the letter from Dr. DeMille here.

Thank you,

Positive Case - St. Elizabeth

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Elizabeth School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of these cohorts have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process is underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Winter Updates 2021

Dear Families,

It’s important that we keep you posted on the many COVID-19 strategies happening during and after the Christmas Holidays. Please find information on our website, regarding confirmation screening, mandatory masking in kindergarten and COVID-19 testing for students.

Confirmation of Daily Screening

Elementary and secondary schools will be required to implement daily on-site confirmation of screening prior to or upon arrival at school for at least two weeks (January 3-14) following the winter break. Parents/guardians are required to screen their child using the provincial COVID-19 School and child care screening tool. Although this is a standard daily practice, the written/verbal confirmation is an additional Ministry required measure.

• Students in Kindergarten to Grade 3 and students with special needs who are unable to verbally verify their daily screen, are required to utilize this form. A parent/guardian letter will be sent home and is expected to be returned by January 3, 2022.
  
• Students in Grades 4 - 12 will verbally confirm that they have completed the daily screening during attendance with their classroom teacher.

In order to provide further clarification around isolation requirements, the COVID-19 school and child care screening tool will be updated to include a question regarding household members who tested positive on a rapid antigen test. When an individual tests positive on a rapid antigen test, any household members who are not fully vaccinated are also required to stay home while the individual seeks a confirmatory PCR test from a verified pharmacy or assessment centre.

Mandatory Masks in Kindergarten

As a result of an increase in the recent number of positive COVID-19 cases impacting our Kindergarten cohorts, non-medical/cloth masks or face coverings will be mandatory for all students in Kindergarten, effective Monday, January 3, 2022. Updated Mask / Face Covering Guidelines For Students can be found on our website.

Rapid Antigen Tests

To support the safe return of students after the winter break, the Ministry will provide rapid antigen screening kits for all students in Ontario. On Wednesday, December 15, every student will be able to take home a BTNX rapid antigen screening kit that contains five tests. These test kits will support all students to complete voluntary screening at home prior to the return to the classroom in January.

The Ministry has developed an instructional video to support usage of the rapid antigen screening kits. The Chief Medical Officer of Health and Minister of Education have provided a letter to encourage use of these kits over the winter break.

PCR Tests

The Ministry of Education has launched PCR take-home tests for symptomatic and dismissed cohorts. Our Board has received these tests and will implement them when students are deemed High Risk Contacts or dismissed for being symptomatic. The Ministry has created an instructional video for the at-home PCR self-collection COVID-19 testing program.

Please enjoy this week, and all that comes with it!

Thank you,

Positive Case - St. Martin

December 6, 2021

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Martin School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been dismissed/contacted by members of TBCDSB.

This situation also impacts one school bus cohort affecting Pope John Paul II and St. Patrick High School. These students are considered low risk and have been notified by the school and public health will be in contact with them.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging..

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected

Outbreak Declared - St. Margaret

December 6, 2021

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has declared an Outbreak at St. Margaret Elementary School.
Please click/tap here to read full details from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Positive Case - St. Margaret

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified two additional COVID-19 cases associated with St. Margaret Elementary School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of the one additional cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process has been completed within the school. This deep clean was performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive cases will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - St. Ignatius

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Ignatius.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of these cohorts have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

This situation also impacts one school bus cohort. These students have been notified by the school.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process is underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Outbreak Declared - St. Martin

Dear Families,

We are happy to report that the TBDHU has declared the outbreak over at St. Martin School.

Please read the following letter from Dr. DeMille, here.

Have a great weekend,

Thank you.

St. Ann | COVID-19 Testing Saturday

Dear St. Ann families,

Together with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and Superior North EMS, precautionary COVID-19 testing will take place tomorrow (Saturday, December 4th) at St. Ann School between the hours of 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

EMS will be on site to perform voluntary asymptomatic COVID-19 testing for any St. Ann students and staff who are unaffected, low-risk cohorts that have not been advised to isolate. If you are planning to attend, please bring your Health Card with you. This is a precautionary measure to ensure there is no further school spread.

Please utilize the booking link here to register. In booking, this will ensure you have a time allocated and will help alleviate traffic. Please use the bus loading zone.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the Paramedics, Public Health nurses, TBDHU staff and TBCDSB Staff for quickly implementing this precautionary testing at our school.

On a positive note, the majority of our cohorts will be returning on Monday and Tuesday.

Please see the attached letter from the TBDHU.

Positive Case - St. Margaret

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Margaret School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of these cohorts have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process is underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Please see a letter from Dr. DeMille, Here.

Additional Case | St. Ann

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified an additional COVID-19 case associated with St. Ann School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.This situation also impacts the previous school bus cohort, these students have been home isolating.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are all with our previously dismissed cohorts and newly dismissed cohort.

Thank you,

Outbreak Declared - St. Ignatius

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has declared an Outbreak at St. Ignatius High School.
Please click/tap here to read full details from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Return to In-person Learning | St. Martin

Dear St. Martin Families,

We cannot wait to see your children back in the classroom on Monday, November 29th.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille.

Please remember to SELF-SCREEN with your children prior to them coming to school. If they are unwell please keep them home.

Have a great weekend!

Outbreak Declared - St. Ann

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has declared an Outbreak at St. Ann School.
Please click/tap here to read full details from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Positive Cases - St. Ann

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified an additional 4 COVID-19 cases associated with St. Ann School. The Health Unit is investigating to see whether these incidents are related.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging. ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - St. Ignatius

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Ignatius.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of these cohorts have been contacted by members of TBCDSB. ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process is underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Thank you,

Positive Case - St. Ann

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Ann School. The TBDHU has advised that the individual has not been in the school setting for an extended period of time. As a precaution, the Health Unit has asked that possible close contacts be dismissed from school and be tested as an added safety measure. The isolation period will be determined by Public Health.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

This situation also impacts two school bus cohorts, and these students have been notified by the school and will be followed up with Public Health.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Outbreak St. Martin - Temporary Pivot to Virtual Learning

Dear Families,

In consultation and partnership with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, we have decided, as a precautionary measure, to temporarily pivot to virtual learning for all students at St. Martin School. This will begin tomorrow, Friday November 19th until early to mid next week. This date has the potential to be extended.

This pivot to virtual learning, is an assertive precautionary approach to ensure everyone’s safety.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille with further details regarding this situation.

Thank you,

Outbreak Declared - St. Martin

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has declared an Outbreak at St. Martin School.

Please click/tap here to read full details from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time.

Positive Case - St. Martin

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified an additional COVID-19 case associated with St. Martin School. The Health Unit is investigating to see whether these two incidents are related.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging. ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - St. Martin

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Martin School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

This situation also impacts two school bus cohorts, and these students have been notified by the school and will be followed up with Public Health.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Please see the letter from Dr. DeMille.

Heightened Surveillance Over - St. Ignatius

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit (TBDHU) has informed us that the period of heightened surveillance at St. Ignatius High School, due to the recent case, is now over.

The school is no longer considered to be at increased risk.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille, here.

Thank you,

Positive Case - St. Ignatius

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Ignatius.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of these cohorts have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

This situation also impacts one school bus cohort. These students have been notified by the school.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process is underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

ONLY those who are symptomatic or not fully vaccinated will remain at home. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the positive case will not be disclosed.

Please read the letter from Dr. DeMille and the TBDHU here.

COVID-19 Portal - Information for students, families and staff

We're really excited to have everyone back in-person this year!

We have updated our COVID-19 Portal with everything you need to know regarding back to school safety.

Please take the time to read through the portal, hours of work were spent in making this an easy area to navigate and find answers to any possible questions.

Click here to learn more https://tbcschools.ca/about/covid-19

Health, safety and operational guidance for schools (2021-2022)

Dear Families,

As many of you may have heard, a return to school guidance document was released today from the Ministry of Education.

This document outlines a school year which reflects a pre-pandemic “normal”with health and safety measures still in place. We are excited for the return of some extracurricular activities, field trips, music programming and assemblies.

We remain optimistic about the year ahead and will continue to keep you updated.

Please see the guidance document here.

Continue to have a great and restful summer!

Host Family Outreach

YES Canada, in partnership with the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, is seeking families to host international high school students from countries around the world who are scheduled to attend our schools this fall. We are welcoming students from France, Denmark, Sweden and Japan for durations ranging from 2 months to the full school year.

Host families are responsible for providing three meals a day in a safe and nurturing environment. Host families are compensated with a monthly stipend of $500.

These international students have planned their study abroad program months in advance and are excited to learn more about the exchange country's culture and language.

Students are required to comply with all Government of Canada and Public Health requirements during Covid-19 including any testing and quarantine requirements both prior to departure and upon arrival in Canada. Additionally, protocols and expectations regarding COVID-19 safety are provided to both the student and host family throughout the process - including prior to arrival and throughout the program. The YES Canada team are available to answer questions and provide information.

These exchanges are important as they connect individuals and cultures and remind us of the common interests, passions and goals. It is also a great way to establish life-long friendships and connections.

If you are interested in hosting an international high school student or would like to learn more about YES Canada's homestay program, please contact scott@youthedservices.ca or call 416-623-6220 ext. 403.

To review program details, click here.

Summer Mental Health Services

While we hope everyone is enjoying their summer, we’d like to remind everyone of how to access support or mental health services during the summer months. Remember that there is no problem #TooBigOrTooSmall to ask for help. We have Social Workers available to support you with whatever is bothering you.

How are counselling services offered?

The Social Worker will negotiate this with you. Options include virtual counselling, phone-based services or in-person with screening and safeguards. Services are voluntary (your choice) and confidential.

Interested? Complete the referral form here

We accept referrals from parents of youth under 12, self-referrals from youth over the age of 12, and third-party referrals from community service providers.

Call the Mental Health Leader, Katie Matthews, at 625-1538.

What if help is needed NOW?

• Call CMHA Thunder Bay’s Crisis Line (346-8282) for immediate mental health support or information any time of the day, evening or night (24/7).
• If this is an emergency situation and you or someone else's safety is at risk, call 911 or get to the emergency department of the local hospital.
• Parent and School Community Mental Health Information Sheet

Talk4Healing: Help Line for Aboriginal Women living in Northern Ontario

• (1-855-554-4325)
• Help line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Talk4Healing offers services in English, Ojibway,
• Oji-Cree & Cree. You can call the help line from anywhere in northern Ontario.
• For on-line information: http://www.talk4healing.com

Feeling anxious? Sad? Not yourself?

• AbilitiCBT can help with virtual therapy on any device.

Climate Action Incentive Fund (CAIF)

In Honour of Children from the Kamloops Indian Residential School

Heartbroken.

Devastated.

Shocked.

Saddened.

Outraged.

Words cannot describe the hurt we feel in hearing about the remains of 215 children found in an unmarked grave, at the former Kamloops Residential School.

These were young, defenceless children - many were kindergarten aged. 215 children (almost an entire school) of Indigenous children who never made it home, secretly buried in an unmarked grave… unforgivable.

We’re a Catholic School Board composed of parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles and siblings; and words cannot describe the pain in knowing what these children were subjected to within a Catholic Institution. As Thunder Bay Catholic, we apologize to all Residential School survivors and their families - especially to those who never made it home. Never should history like this repeat itself, nor be forgotten or discarded.

Beginning tomorrow, a sacred fire will be lit at Pope John Paul II school, the former St. Joseph’s Indian Residential School. Fire Keepers will be on site, along with tobacco for offerings. The public is welcome to come and pray, give offerings and reflect during this sacred time. Flags at all Board sites will be flown at half mast. This is a time to grieve and heal, together.

We are asking our entire community to wear orange tomorrow (May 31), as we reflect and pray for the families and for the spirits of the children who never returned home. We pray for their families who have never had closure and who never knew what happened to their loved ones.

For survivors and families who need support, please contact Indian Residential School Survivors Society at 1-800-721-0066 or NAN HOPE at 1-844-626-4673.

*We kindly ask to please remember to mask and maintain physical distancing guidelines at our sites.

Hope

Meet Todd!

Known as Mr. Perrier by his students, he is one of our incredible Attendance Counsellors.

This week both the Globe and Mail and CBC Radio Canada reached out to chat with him about the challenges Boards across the province have faced with student absenteeism. It’s no secret, we currently have 360 students absent from school this year due to the pandemic.

Mr. Perrier and his colleagues have been tirelessly bridging gaps and offering support where they can. If you happen to be one of the 360 reading this, we see you, we miss you and we understand. There is hope. It will get better.

CBC’s Omar Dabaghi-Pacheco of Ontario Today asked Todd: “Are you hopeful for the future?” and he responded with this message:

“I really am. I look at my own two children and adversity builds strength. We have to start giving messages of hope because people are starting to feel hopeless. I am blown away with our school system and how amazing they have been at adapting to all these changes that have come their way. Just hearing my own two children’s teachers; how caring and compassionate they are - that goes such a long way and so yes, I am very hopeful. When it comes to gaps I am very confident with our school system and their ability to help people bridge those gaps. Kindness and compassion go a long way."

You can listen to Todd’s interview on CBC radio and read the article by Caroline Alphonso here.

Thank you to not only our Attendance Counsellors, but to all Attendance Counsellors working to help students and families throughout this challenging time.

Register for Temporary Virtual Schooling

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As a Board, we are committed to the academic success of each and every student. COVID-19 continues to impact traditional educational methods worldwide, with many students having to learn remotely. Temporary Virtual School may be a Ministry option depending on the COVID-19 situation at the beginning of the upcoming school year. The reasons this is considered temporary, is in the hope that all students will be able to return to face-to-face learning.

Please click here to learn more about Temporary Virtual Schooling.

A letter from the TBCDSB Trustees regarding Vaccination of Educational Workers

Dear Families,

Please see the attached letter from our Board Chair and Trustees regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for all Educational workers in the province. Read the full letter here.

Heightened Surveillance OVER at St. Bernard

Dear Families,

The TBDHU has declared the heightened surveillance at St. Bernard is now over.

Please see the attached letter, here.

Thank you.

Heightened Surveillance OVER at PJPII + Corpus Christi

Dear Families,

The TBDHU has declared the heightened surveillance at both Pope John Paul II & Corpus Christi is now over.

Please see the letters from Dr. DeMille, above.

Thank you,

Heightened Surveillance OVER at St. Elizabeth

Dear Families,

The TBDHU has declared the heightened surveillance at St. Elizabeth is now over. Please see the letter here.

Thank you.

Positive Case - St. Bernard

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with St. Bernard School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families and the identity of the associated case will not be disclosed.

Please see the letter from Dr. DeMille, here.

We continue to pray for all those affected today.

Thank you,

Outbreak Declared - St. Martin

Dear Families,

Today we were notified by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit that St. Martin school has been declared as an outbreak. The situation meets the criteria for a school outbreak set by the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education.

What does this mean?

• At this time, one additional individual associated within the dismissed cohort, has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is deemed to have acquired the infection in the school setting. All other individuals within the cohort, have tested negative.
• The School will remain open, as all individuals associated with the impacted classes/cohorts have already been at home isolating.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille from the TBDHU.

Thank you.

Positive Case - Corpus Christi

Dear Families,

This morning we were notified that an individual within Corpus Christi school tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - Pope John Paul II

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary School. This case is not associated with the previous case at Pope John Paul II.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

This situation also impacts two school bus cohorts, with one impacting St. Patrick. These students have been notified by the school and public health will be in contact with them.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the probable case will not be disclosed.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - St. Elizabeth

Dear Families,

This evening we were notified that an individual within St. Elizabeth school tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive Case - St. Martin

Dear Families,

This evening we were notified that an individual at St. Martin School tested positive for COVID-19. This is not an outbreak, as this case is not connected to the previous case.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

Please remember to stay vigilant in donning masks and eye protection, physical distancing and hand washing within our schools. These methods are vital in keeping us all safe.

Please see the letter from Dr. DeMille, here.

Thank you for everything you do. We continue to pray for all those affected today.

Thank you,

St. Bernard heightened surveillance is OVER

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has informed us that the period of heightened surveillance at St. Bernard School is now over. The school is no longer considered to be at increased risk related to COVID-19.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you,

Associated COVID-19 case - Pope John Paul II

Dear Families,

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has identified a COVID-19 case associated with Pope John Paul II Senior Elementary School.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and were dismissed this afternoon and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

This situation also impacts two school bus cohorts, with one impacting St. Patrick. These students have been notified by the school and public health will be in contact with them.

These cohorts will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families and the identity of the associated case will not be disclosed.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Please see the attached message from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you,
TBCDSB

Positive Case - St. Martin

Dear Families,

We were notified by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit that an individual associated with St. Martin School has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual is currently isolating at home and has been in contact with Public Health.

The Thunder Bay District Health Unit has initiated a thorough investigation and assessed the possible exposure within St.Martin. Through the investigation, they have determined that St. Martin students, staff and school community are considered low risk for COVID-19 at this time. All students and staff can continue to attend school in-person, as the exposure is considered low within the school.

The TBDHU will continue to work closely with our Board to monitor the situation at St. Martin and advise if there are any changes. Understandably, for privacy reasons, the identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection process has already taken place in the school as an added precaution.

Please see the attached message from Dr. DeMille.

Thank you,

Update St. Bernard School (Letter from TBDHU)

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please click/tap here to read an update from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, regarding St. Bernard School.

As stated by the TBDHU, no additional cases of COVID-19 have been identified and we have no evidence that the virus has spread in the school setting.

We are grateful for everyone's kindness and understanding at this time.

Thank you,

Positive COVID-19 St. Bernard

1/28/2021

Dear Families,

This afternoon we were notified that individuals within St. Bernard school tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and were dismissed this afternoon and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individuals who tested positive will not be disclosed.

I will continue to keep you updated on the investigation from Public Health.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

TBDHU Update - Holy Family & St. Bernard School

Dear Families,

Please see below, letters from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, regarding Holy Family and St. Bernard School.
The period of heightened surveillance at both schools is considered over. The schools are no longer considered to be at increased risk related to COVID-19.

• Holy Family
• St. Bernard

We are grateful for your kindness and understanding throughout these past few weeks.

Provincial-wide Lockdown - Our Schools

Dear Families,

Today, Premier Ford announced that Ontario will go into a Province-Wide Shutdown starting at 12:01 A.M. on December 26th, 2020. This lockdown will be in effect in Northern, Ontario for 14 days with the possibility of an extension depending on the rise of COVID-19 cases. Premier Ford also released information regarding our schools with an extended closure of schools for in person learning.

What does this mean?
All Grades (Kindergarten -12) will learn remotely from January 4, 2021 to January 8, 2021 and return to in-class learning on January 11, 2021. Our region allows for in-person instruction for all grades to commence on Monday, January 11, 2021.

We know this isn’t the news anyone wanted right before Christmas. Anxieties are already high and we know that as both parents/guardians you are also professionals with careers and jobs to return to after the holidays.

At this time, we encourage you to stay close to home, keep informed and be proactive during this time.

We know you have questions.
This government announcement has come on suddenly, we will continue to update you as information becomes available. Please continue to check our social media channels and website for updates.

More information will follow in the coming weeks.

Thank you,

St. Martin Update

Please click/tap here to read an update from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, regarding St. Martin School.

We are grateful for your kindness and understanding throughout these past few weeks.

Thank you and Merry Christmas

Positive COVID-19 St. Bernard

December 16, 2020

Dear Families,

Early this afternoon we were notified that an individual within our school tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and were dismissed this afternoon and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

I will continue to keep you updated on the investigation from Public Health.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

Positive COVID-19 Case Holy Family

Dear Families,

This morning we were notified that an individual within our school tested positive for COVID-19.

Parents, Guardians and Staff of this cohort have been contacted by members of TBCDSB and were dismissed this morning and will be contacted by a Public Health Nurse.

The cohort will remain home and a thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be underway within the school. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging of the entire school.

ONLY those identified by Public Health as a close contact will be required to stay home and will not return to the school setting until cleared by Public Health. TBDHU will continue to monitor the situation and advise if there are any changes.

Privacy is extremely important to us, our staff and our families. The identity of the individual who tested positive will not be disclosed.

I will continue to keep you updated on the investigation from Public Health.

Please see the attached letter from Dr. DeMille today.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.

St. Martin COVID-19 Update

December 9, 2020

Please see the attached letter from the Thunder Bay District Health unit regarding St. Martin School.

Please know, additional St. Martin cohort Parents and Guardians were contacted this afternoon and asked to pick up their children to isolate and await direction from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. Impacted staff were released and asked to follow the same protocol.

• December 9, 2020 - Letter from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit

Our prayers are with all impacted at this time.

Update from the Health Unit - St. Martin

Dear Families,

Please click/tap here to read an update from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, regarding St. Martin School.

Thank you,

Positive COVID-19 Case St. Martin

Dear Families,

Late last evening we were notified by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit that an individual at St. Martin School tested positive for COVID-19.

At this time, there is no evidence of school related spread of the virus.

At this time an investigation is underway by Public Health and our Board is working very closely with their team. We will continue to follow the directives of the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.

The cohort will remain home under the direction of Public Health. A thorough cleaning and disinfection process will be taking place. This deep clean will be performed by a third party, which entails disinfectant fogging.

We are all feeling the effects of this pandemic and we want you to know that we are doing everything we can to ensure our health, safety and well-being. We will continue to be transparent in what is happening within our schools and sites and we will continue to work alongside Public Health.

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to all individuals and families affected.

Thank you,

Student Travel Advisory

Dear Parents and Guardians,

With the rising COVID-19 cases across the province and within our city, we are taking additional precautionary measures to protect our students, staff and families.

In accordance with our staff travel advisory memo that was released last week, we are also advising our students to avoid all travel. Students who have travelled outside of the Northwestern Ontario region are not permitted to enter any of our school sites.

Students must stay home for 14 days, be symptom free and follow the guidance of the Thunder Bay District Health Unit before returning to school. The school will provide a return to school date to parents/guardians as per the recommendation of the Health Unit.

The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board recognizes some students may have to travel for essential reasons such as medical care or other reasons protected under the Ontario Human Rights Code. If you believe that your child may have such extenuating circumstances, you are encouraged to reach out to your school Principal or Vice-Principal.

If your child has travelled, please follow this process:

• Do not send your child to school.
  
• Contact your school Principal to let them know that your child has travelled.
  
• Discuss a work plan for your child with your school Principal.
  
• If you or your child are displaying any symptoms, please contact the Thunder Bay District Health Unit for further guidance.

This advisory is to ensure that we all remain safe. The health and safety of our students, staff, families and community are of utmost importance. We must all ensure we do our part to flatten the curve.

LIFTED | Hold and Secure - St. Pius X

Hold and Secure has been Lifted for St. Pius X.

Thank you.

School Climate Survey

Dear Parents and Guardians,

We have an upcoming school climate survey called Our School Survey for students in grades 4-12. The survey will ask respondents to comment on matters about bullying, equity, inclusivity, and harassment at school in accordance with the Ministry of Education policy #144 “Safe Schools”.

Students in grades 4-6 are asked to complete the Our School Elementary Survey while grades 7-12 students complete the Our School Secondary Survey. The survey will be open to respondents between November 30 to December 18, 2020. Students will complete surveys in class. Student participation is voluntary, however all students are encouraged to participate. All responses to the Our School Student Survey will be anonymous. Students enrolled in Learn@Home (Virtual School) will not complete the survey.

Parents and Guardians are encouraged to complete a school climate survey called the TBCDSB Parent/Guardian Survey.

Click here to begin the Parent/Guardian Survey

Safe School Teams at each school will review and utilize the data from the Our School Survey and the Parent/Guardian Survey to promote and enhance an environment of respect, safety and belonging for all students.

Jerry Izydorczak, our Technology Enabled Teaching and Learning contact will act as our Board’s district contact for the school climate survey.
If you have any questions, please contact him at 625.1512.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance in this initiative.

Positive COVID-19 Cases - St. Margaret School

Please see the latest update from the Health Unit regarding St. Margaret School.

• Click here to read the November 12th letter.

Please click here to see the attached message from The Thunder Bay District Health Unit regarding positive COVID-19 cases at St. Margaret School.

Please click here to view the FAQ from the TBDHU.

Our thoughts and prayers are extended to all individuals and families affected.

Thank you,

* November 9th Update from the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, click here

Kindergarten to Grade 3 Face Shields

Kindergarten to Grade 3 Face Shields

A letter was recently sent home with your child, along with a face shield.

The Ministry of Education provided one face shielf per student, as an additional precaution, they are not mandatory to wear in Kindergarten to grade 3.

If you choose to have your child wear a face shield, they are fairly easy to wear. To ensure your child is protected while wearing one, the panel of the shield should extend well past the chin and curve around the sides of their face, without gaps.

Face Shields will need to be cleaned after every use, each day.

You can submerge the protective panel in warm, soapy water and gently clean the surface with a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse and gently dry your face shield with a soft towel (cotton or microfiber). You can clean the headpiece separately.

For additional protection, you can pair your child’s face shield with a cloth mask, neither precaution is mandatory in these grade levels.

Item Return & Drop-off

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Please check your school’s social media pages and website for further information this week regarding item drop-off.

Note: not all schools will have the same procedures and dates.

Please be patient and please maintain all social distancing practices. Although we are happy although we are happy to see one another, we have to ensure we make this day as efficient as possible, please keep this in mind while you are at the school.

Cycling for a Cause

Our very own St. Bernard Elementary School Flame is cycling throughout quarantine for a cause!

Michael is kicking off Catholic Education week in a big way! He has decided to bike at least 1,000 kilometres to help raise money for the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation.

This is a family affair; along with the support of his friends, his family is beside him every kilometre of the way! Micheal wants to give back to the community, and this is his way of helping!

From his Principals, Mme Strickland and Mme Pascuzzo:

Michael, you have embarked on quite an adventure! Fundraising for our local Health Sciences Foundation is such a wonderful act of charity. This week is Catholic Education Week and our theme this year is 'Igniting Hope'. Michael, you are not only igniting hope for the Foundation but for the future of our youth. You will be an inspiration to many. Good luck, Michael!

You can follow Michael along on Facebook and Instagram! you can also donate to his cause here!

Largest Canadian STEM Scholarship!

THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO, April 27, 2020 --- Kiara Bergagnini has been selected to receive an $80,000 Schulich Leader Scholarship to study Science at Dalhousie University. A graduate of St. Ignatius High School in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Bergagnini will be entering the Bachelor of Science program this Fall. Bergagnini was selected by her school team for her outstanding Academic achievements. This is the 2nd Nominee to win a Schulich Leader Scholarship at St. Ignatius High School.

Given the unparalleled current disruption, there is a much greater need for students to get financial support in order to pursue their university education. This year, The Schulich Foundation has decided to award an additional 50 scholarships, for a total of 100.

“Schulich Leader Scholarships are the premiere STEM scholarship program in Canada and the world. With 100 outstanding students selected in Canada this year, it is all but guaranteed that this group will represent the best and brightest Canada has to offer. These future leaders will make great contributions to society, both on a national and global scale. With their university expenses covered, they can focus their time on their studies, research projects, extracurriculars, and entrepreneurial ventures. They are the next generation of technology innovators,” says Mr. Schulich.

From Kiara:
When I found out I was selected as a Schulich Leader I was in shock and disbelief. Throughout high school, I have always tried to give a hundred percent to my studies with the philosophy that my future self would thank me later. Receiving this scholarship
has shown me that all of my hard work and dedication was worth the sacrifices I had to make along the way. I am extremely thankful to be recognized and provided with this generous scholarship which will allow me to pursue my passions and give back to the community without being weighed down by the financial burden created by university.

From St. Ignatius:
Having Kiara receive this prestigious award reinforces the importance in academics for our students. It also emphasizes the impact that our students can have on a national scale when they commit to their studies. Congratulations also goes out to the dedicated teachers and staff who worked with Kiara throughout her years in the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board and Holy Cross School, Bishop E.Q. Jennings Senior Elementary School and St. Ignatius High School.

About Schulich Leader Scholarships Canada
Recognizing the increasing importance and impact that STEM disciplines will have on the prosperity of future generations, businessman and philanthropist Seymour Schulich established this $100+ million scholarship fund in 2012 to encourage our best and brightest students to become Schulich Leader Scholars: the next generation of entrepreneurial-minded, technology innovators.

COVID-19

Frequently Asked Questions.

ALL TBCDSB SITES WILL BE CLOSED (MARCH 14 - APRIL 5)

• I am travelling out of the country with my family outside of the week of the March Break, do we need to self-isolate ?
  Yes. If you are planning a trip outside of the week of March Break, Canadians are advised by the Ministry of Health to self-isolate. This would be 14 days of isolation upon your date of arrival home. This is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus. To learn more, please visit the Thunder Bay District Health Unit site, for more information. Signs will be posted outside of our buildings indicating this procedure as well.

• Will my son or daughter still receive Social Work Services?
  Yes. School Social workers will be working throughout the closure and reaching out to youth/families via phone support and scheduling appointments at Children’s Centre Thunder Bay.

• Will Daycares within schools and Before and After school programs be running?
  No. Closure of all Daycares and before and after school programming within our schools is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus among our TBCDSB Family and community.

• Will Community Use of Schools still be running?
  No. All community programming within our schools will not be running. This is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus among our TBCDSB Family and community.

• Will Home Instruction still be administered?
  No. All home instruction programming will be cancelled. This again is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus among our TBCDSB Family and community.
• Will Co-Op/OYAP and Dual Credit programming still be running?
  No. All programming within our schools will not be running. This again is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus among our TBCDSB Family and community.
• Will Extracurriculars (sporting events etc.) still be running?
  No. All extracurriculars have been cancelled until further notice. This again is a preventative measure to stop the spread of this virus among our TBCDSB Family and community.

• Will the After School Skills Development Program be running?
  The next session is scheduled to begin on April 6th however, the start date will be delayed. Once program staff have more information, they will communicate it to parents.

• What is Deep Cleaning?
  In addition to our rigorous cleaning practices, disinfecting will take place with focus on high-touch surfaces.

• Who can I contact during the closure?
  Please connect with us online. Schools can be contacted via email through their school website. For Board Office contact, please email communications@tbcschools.ca

• Will my student be provided with assignments and work over the closure?
  No. With the shock of the province-wide shutdown, educators have not had adequate time to prepare to provide any homework/assignments, nor would this be expected of them at this time. We are awaiting Ministry directives on this, continue to check the Ministry of Education website for details pertaining to further educational initiatives during the closure period.

OECTA Update

OECTA (Ontario English Catholic Teachers Association), the union representing our Elementary, Secondary and Occasional Teachers have reached a tentative agreement at the provincial table. This has been a challenging year for all in labour negotiations and we are pleased that a tentative agreement has been reached.

Details of the tentative agreement will be shared following ratification. We are appreciative of the efforts of our bargaining team and Crown partners, and the representatives of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association.

Sincerely,

Thunder Bay Catholic

Thunder Bay Police Celebrate Family Literacy Day!

Watch the Video, below!

New Chair & Vice-Chair

Trustee, Francis Veneruz has been elected as Chair of the Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board, and Trustee, Loretta Fonso was elected as Vice-Chair.

Both bring a variety of experience and knowledge as retired teachers from our Board, with Mr. Veneruz retiring as a Principal from St. Patrick high school.

The election was held Monday evening, following the Trustee & Senior Administration annual mass and commissioning service.

How a Thunder Bay satellite kindergarten class...

Every weekday morning, in a scene that might play out in classrooms across the country, Kimberly John leads her four- and five-year-olds in a song about the weather and helps them count out loud and answer questions about how they are feeling that day.

Read more from Caroline Alphonso's Article in the Globe and Mail, highlighting our amazing Kindergarten class at Fort William First Nation!

• Click here, to read the entire article

No Bully Zone!

Draft an Athlete!

This morning, St. Francis School welcomed guests Warren, and Special Olympic Athlete, Nicole to their school.

Nicole had the opportunity to tell students about her skills and favourite sports to compete in, while also talking about the upcoming Special Olympics Winter Games.

This year, our amazing city is hosting the Special Olympics Winter Games (February 25-29). St. Francis, along with the rest of our schools in our Board, are raising funds to draft an athlete!

- What’s Draft an Athlete? -

Draft an Athlete is a program that allows supporters of the movement to fund a Special Olympics athlete’s journey to a regional, provincial, national or world competition. The cost of sending athletes to competitions is high. Through the Draft an Athlete program, more athletes are able to attend a competition through direct support.

Thank you Warren and Nicole for visiting, taking the time to let these lions know some more information about the Special Olympics and the Draft and Athlete Campaign!

Tbaytel for Good - WINNER!

Students at St. Martin were shocked this morning, when they learned they were winners in the Tbaytel for Good contest!

Tbaytel surprised the entire student body, and presented all winners with their awards this morning in the school gymnasium.

The students in Mme Auger’s grade six class submitted the idea to build a Blessings Cupboard. With the help from Mme Redfern-Pucci, a video was submitted to Tbaytel, outlining the need for the cupboard and the items it will contain. Necessities such as: winter clothing, hygiene products, and other items will be made available to any student who may need it.

The school received $1,500 through the program and the students cannot wait to get started to help others, especially their classmates in need.

Way to go Mustangs! We are so proud of you. Thank you to EVERYONE who voted, and continued to vote on daily basis!

Nolan's Journey

Nolan Connelly, is a former Pope John Paul II School Community French immersion student from Mme Antaki’s class.

Last summer, Nolan experienced an accident this past summer leaving him a paraplegic. Nolan was an active 21 year old student at Lakehead university studying kinesiology, when in a flash, his life changed forever.

Pope John Paul’s student council, known as JCC, decided to raise money to assist Nolan in his recovery process. The students wanted Nolan to know that they are thinking of him and wish him well as he rebuilds his life.

JCC held a hat day, sold cookies and candy bags, organized a trivia lunch game and hosted a dance. Through the students we were able to raise $2,200.00 dollars for Nolan and his family!

Nolan is presently in Toronto undergoing physical therapy but will be visiting the school in the new year to show his appreciation. The students are excited and looking forward to meeting Nolan and will find inspiration in his touching story.

We are praying for you Nolan! thank you to these amazing students at PJP for their selflessness, in order to help one of their alumni.

Remembrance Day

Today, Mrs. Halushak's class from St. Pius X School joined hundreds of others at the Port Arthur Cenotaph for the Remembrance Day Ceremonies. Two of her students had the honour of laying a wreath.

Students across our Board participated in Remembrance Day ceremonies today, and have been engaged in various activities - from prayer services to crafts and history projects for Remembrance Week.

We ran into several alumni, two of these faces you may recognize in particular - Sgt Billy McElroy and WO Jon O'Connor, who helped us with our Remembrance Day video. We also caught up with many of our alumni from Thunder Bay Police Service and the LSSR who attended St. Ignatius High School Thunder Bay and @StPatrickhigh

We recognize the courage and sacrifice of those who served and who continue to serve. Thank you.

Lest we Forget.

November Tulips

Grade 10 History students in Ms. Etienne & Ms. Papich's classes St. Ignatius High School Thunder Bay participated in a ceremonial tulip planting service at Current River Park in celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation of Holland.

The tulips were planted in pots on site, and will eventually be transplanted into the St. Ignatius Outdoor classroom area.

The new monument was embraced as an outdoor classroom. Here, the classes had the opportunity to discuss local World War I history and have a prayer service, honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

They also discussed the relationship between Canada and the Netherlands since World War II. The Canadian forces led the liberation of the Netherlands, and provided sanctuary for the Dutch Royal Family while their country was under Nazi occupation.

Tulips are a symbol of the enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands because of Canada’s selfless actions to assist. Thank you for inviting us! It was a great addition to Remembrance Week services.

We Remember

Nearing the end of October, St. Pius X School & St Jude Elementary School students in Mrs. Halushak & Mrs. Boyd's classes ventured to Hillcrest Park and the Port Arthur Cenotaph.

Each student wrote down the meaning of peace to them, and learned about Remembrance Day, the Cenotaph, the Armoury and why it's important to remember.

The peace sign images will be used in Remembrance Day ceremonies at their schools, taking place tomorrow.

Sound Structures

Sean, Doug and Richard, Architects from Brook McIlroy, along with Dan, from Dan Pradal Construction, were on site to teach the students all about investigating strong and stable structures!

This deep learning project became even more fun and engaging with the help of marshmallows, Swedish Berries and toothpicks to create their very own mini stable structures.

Students had the opportunity to put their lesson to work in creating different shapes - such as triangles, to create a solid foundation for their structure.

Thank you to Sean, Doug, Richard and Dan for taking time out of your day to help the Students with their Deep Learning project. It's always great to have local professionals come into the classroom!

Thank you Mrs. Meo for inviting us!

Checkout all of our photos from today on Facebook!

Kindergarten Inquiry Excursion!

This week, we were invited by Ms. Turco and Ms. Aube from St. Bernard School to tag along on their Kindergarten Inquiry Excursion!

Even more fun, we had Ms. Lenardon and Ms. Grann's class with us, along with our guides/educators from the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority!

These amazing classes have been involved in a fall inquiry focus on the natural environment trees, leaves and animals. Exploring the Cascades together was a lot of fun, especially when you have parent, grandparent and canine helpers!

Thanks for the inquisitive morning!

- Treaties Week - Birchbark Canoe

This week honours the importance of treaties and helps students and residents of Ontario learn more about treaty rights and relationships.

Mr. Angus visited several classrooms and schools, and has been active in sharing his knowledge and songs with students.

This week, Bishop Gallagher Senior Elementary School with the help of Mr. Ramage and Mr. Angus, created Birch Bark Canoes. This birch was all harvested from Mr. Angus' property. Thank you for this!

Busy Jaguars!

Last week, we visited Pope John Paul II School Community... and the word "busy" is quite the understatement!

This school is HUSTLING!

We learned all about Nolan's journey, and then discovered that Ms. Harrison, Ms. Racco, Mr. Dubeau, Mr. Erdman and Ms. Lamothe along with their students are weaving sleeping mats for the homeless. This is a TEDIOUS project! The plastic bags were collected, then the students have to flatten the bags, cut them into strips (to make "yarn") and crochet them together. We will check back on their progress!

We then dropped by class 73, where Mrs. Henderson's class are collecting socks and underwear for a local agency. IF you want to donate! Please drop off NEW socks and underwear to the office!

THEN... oh yes, there's a "then", we made our way to the culinary room, where the scent of garlic and cilantro greeted us! Mrs. Harrison's class was busy preparing their "Last Supper" - a final meal preparation for the semester.

Jaguars - keep up the amazing work, you're doing amazing things!

St. Martin's Mustangs' Blessing Cupboard

Click here, to vote for the St. Martin's Mustangs' Blessing Cupboard through Tbaytel for Good contest!

The school community will stock a Blessings Cupboard with food basics, personal care items, clothing and household essentials for students to access year round.

• You can vote as many times as you want until Friday, November 8th, 2019 at 4 p.m. ET, so vote now and vote often!

OPT In!

Did you receive a text this morning? Yes, that was us!

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Text messaging service is now available!

Our schools utilize the SchoolMessenger system to deliver text messages, straight to your mobile phone. Important information about events, school closures, safety alerts and more will be delivered to you, promptly.

Text “YES” to this number:

978338

And you’re done!

You can also opt out of these messages at any time, simply in responding to one of our messages with the response: “stop”.

First Communion Welcome

Our Southside schools participated in a beautiful mass yesterday, at St. Agnes Church, Thunder Bay

These young grade two students are preparing for their first Holy Communion, and were welcomed, together with their families to a celebratory mass.

The First Communion team, including teachers Maureen Van Dyk and Kristen Veneziale, from St. Agnes Church, invited the students.

The mass was introduced to help build excitement and prepare the students for enrolling in First Reconciliation and Communion at their family parish.

Thank you to everyone who attended. It was a beautiful afternoon.

To learn more about First Communion, please contact your family Parish.

Friendship has no Age!

Today, students from Holy Cross Elementary School had the opportunity to meet students from Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School!

As part of their deep-learning initiatives, Mrs. Arthur's former grade 4 class wanted to do something special for fellow students.

Living in Thunder Bay is something many take for granted, especially when you are a student who was born and raised in the community. Holy Cross students took a great interest in learning more about students in northern communities, who must leave their homes in order to pursue their education in Thunder Bay.

Because of this transition, and introduction to a new city and new surroundings, the students wanted to make new DFC students feel welcome. As an extension of camaraderie, these new grade five students created welcome care packages with the help of many local businesses!

Thank you to the staff, students and Elders of DFC for making us feel so incredibly welcomed. The homemade bannock and cookies were delicious, and the students really enjoyed having a school tour while getting to meet "big kids".

St. Francis Day!

Did you know, October 4th is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi?

Did you know St. Francis is the Catholic Church’s patron saint of animals and the environment? AND during this day, it is a popular day for pets to be blessed.

Today, Father Jerin was at St. Francis School celebrating St. Francis of Assisi Day with a beautiful outdoor mass.

Students, Staff, families and furry friends were all invited to participate and many furry and fishy friends were blessed.

Thank you to everyone who participated. Shout out to Luna, the most patient and easy going cat we've ever met!

We Matter!

"I matter, you matter, we matter." - St. James Public School

Today we celebrated with our friends at Lakehead Public Schools, where Staples and The Kiwanis Club of Thunder Bay presented extremely generous donations to our students and their school communities.

International Walk to School Month!

We started our morning with St. Margaret Elementary School and EcoSuperior with a great walk!

Did you know that walking to and from school has so many wonderful benefits, which include: staying active, improving overall health, AND making sustainable transportation choices. Schools such as St. Margaret can even track their class’ trips, and the highest participating classes and schools win prizes!

The event is part of the WOW TBay project, which is co-led by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit and EcoSuperior. This project is made possible through financial support from Green Communities Canada and the Government of Ontario.

Terry Fox Run

Students, staff and their families at Holy Family School took to the street, and walked in honour of Terry Fox and their loved ones, battling cancer.

"It's got to keep going without me..." - Terry Fox

These amazing students are continuing his legacy, with a goal of raising funds for cancer research.

Within the last nine years, Holy Family School alone has raised over $26,000.

We're so proud of ALL of schools... and our entire Thunder Bay community who participate in this yearly event.

We all know how near and dear Terry is to our community, with his running journey sadly ending here in our city.

---

"Doctors in Thunder Bay confirmed that cancer had spread from his legs to his lungs. He phoned his parents who caught the first plane to Thunder Bay. Terry was so weak when he tried to walk across the street to a car so they could get a bite to eat outside the hospital, he collapsed. “The day before I’d run 26 miles and now I couldn’t even walk across the street,” he said." - Marathon of Hope website

Orange Shirt Day!

We kicked off the morning at St. Ann Elementary School and caught up with our students in their very best orange apparel!

We then headed over to St. Martin Elementary School where students in Mme Auger and Mme Wowchuk's classes showed us the attachment hearts they loving sewed.

Attachment hearts are used to support kinship, connection and relationships for Aboriginal children, youth, families and communities. They are filled with traditional Indigenous medicines *tobacco* and given to someone who is a friend, family member or caregiver to demonstrate your attachment to that person.

WE then headed to the gym, where we took a massive photo with all of the students and staff members wearing orange. Those who forgot to wear orange, helped us capture the perfect photo! Thanks Assistants!