Now that the school year is underway, I am pleased to be able to provide some worthwhile information that will hopefully serve to assist you as we begin the 2023/24 school year.
I hope that each and every one of you have had a restful and enjoyable holiday and are looking forward to a successful, productive, and exciting school year.
This post will cover the following topics:
Staffing Update
There will be several returning members and new additions to our staff this year:
Mrs. Sandra Reis — Humanities Department Head and Student Resource
Ms. Alannah Hardy (second semester) — Science
Mrs. Katarina Tomas — Educational Assistant
Ms. Niamh Kilkenny — Educational Assistant
Mr. Nick Sorace — Educational Assistant
Ms. Michaela Sorriento — Educational Assistant
Deacon Mike Boreham — Archbishop’s Representative (St. Helen’s)
Fr. Juan Lucca — School Chaplain (St. Francis of Assisi
First Week Schedule
Tuesday, September 5 — Gr 8 Orientation (see related post); no school for Gr 9-12.
Wednesday, September 6 — Regular Schedule for all students; dismissal at 2:45pm
Thursday, September 7 — Regular Schedule for all students; dismissal at 2:45pm
Friday, September 8 — Regular Schedule for all students; dismissal at 2:45pm
Summer Dress Code
Optional Summer Dress Code is in effect until Thanksgiving.
All dress code policies are available in the School Handbook. It is very important that all families become familiar with the expectations so as to help set your children up for success. If you are not sure, please contact the administration prior to purchasing an item that may not be permitted at school.
Acceptable options for boys:
Formal dress code, with dress shoes or runners
If choosing the walking shorts: Navy, grey, or black walking shorts — no cargo shorts, side pockets, or athletic shorts
School golf shirt
Any colour running shoes — no flip flops or sandals
Acceptable options for girls:
Formal dress code, with dress shoes or runners
If choosing the walking shorts: Navy, grey, or black walking shorts — no cargo shorts, side pockets, spandex or athletic shorts
School golf shirt
Any color running shoes — no flip flops or sandals
If uncertain, please check first. Parents and/or students who choose an option (of shorts) that may or may not be acceptable should check with the school administration prior to purchasing them. Sending pictures would be very helpful.
Traffic Reminders
A reminder to all parents that drop off and pick up along Venables Street or Parker Street should be done on the school side of the street only. Parking on the opposite side of the street can be very dangerous. If and when students are dropped off or picked up on the opposite side of the street, it is strongly advised that they cross the street at a crosswalk (Venables and Renfrew) or at the corner (Parker and Renfrew). Students or parents attempting to cross in the middle of the street may receive respectful reminders not to do so. Parents are asked to cooperate with our traffic parent volunteers as they are doing their best to keep all our students safe.
Drop-off must, in no way, include stopping on, in front of, or across the street from the fire hall property at the west end of the street. We have received concerns from the fire hall that parents have been stopping and, at times, parking in that area before and after school. As well, please avoid stopping on or directly in front of any of our neighbourhood business establishments. It is in our best interest to maintain positive relationships with all who live or work near the school.
Finally, a reminder that the staff parking lot is not available to students and parents during school days from 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
We thank you for your understanding and your anticipated cooperation with respect to these important reminders. Please refer to the School Handbook for further reminders related to drop-off before and after school.
Notable Upcoming Non-School Days
Monday, October 2 — National Truth and Reconciliation Day
Monday, October 9 — Thanksgiving
Friday, October 20 — Professional Development Day
Wednesday, October 25 — Professional Development Day
Friday, November 10 — Professional Development Day
Monday, November 13 — Remembrance Day Holiday
Friday, November 25 — Professional Development Day
Grade 8 Parents Information Evening
There will be an in-person information evening for Grade 8 parents on Wednesday, September 13, beginning at 6:00 PM.
The evening will include a breakout session for all Grade 8 parents, including Band parents, at approximately 6:45pm. More details will be forthcoming regarding the evening’s itinerary.
It is with great enthusiasm and sincere optimism that I look forward to the start of another school year at Notre Dame Regional Secondary.
Yours in Christ,
Mr. R. DesLauriers
Principal