Monthly Archives: January 2023

St. Teresa of Avila C.E.S. ~ Weekly Updates Jan. 30-Feb. 3

Good afternoon Tornado Families:

Black History/Heritage Month begins on February 1st. During Black History Month, Canadians celebrate the many achievements and contributions of Black Canadians who, throughout history, have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate, and prosperous nation it is today. Black History Month is a time to learn more about these Canadian stories and the many other important contributions of Black Canadians to the settlement, growth, and development of Canada, and about the diversity of Black communities in Canada and their importance to the history of this country. Our staff and students will be spending the month involved in various classroom activities aimed at providing opportunities to better appreciate these contributions made by our Black Canadians, past and present.

Please join us in celebrating BHM by asking your children about what they have been learning in school. You can also learn more as a family here: https://www.cbc.ca/kidscbc2/explore/black-history-month and https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage.html

Winter Walk Day is this Wednesday! There is an opportunity to win a $25 Indigo gift card from STSWR by registering as per the flyer.

Our school Danceathon fundraiser will be taking place on Thursday, February 23rd! More information to follow next week.

2023-2024 Extended Day Registration

Please know that the 2023-2024 Extended Day Pre-Registration is now open. Families who are interested in the program for next school year are encouraged to pre-register using this link:

https://regionofwaterloo.onehsn.com/wcdsb/

Kindergarten Registration: Do you have a child at home born in 2018 or 2019? 

You can register them now to start school in September 2023! The online registration portal through ASPEN for Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year is NOW OPEN!

  • Parents/Caregivers can now register their children online for next year’s kindergarten class. If you would like to physically come into the school to register your child, this can be done anytime in February during the school day (9 am – 2:45 pm). We will also offer one evening for registration on Thursday, February 16th, from 5 pm to 8 pm.
  • A Welcome to Kindergarten Night will be held at our school on May 18th from 6 pm to 7 pm.
  • Children born in 2019 are eligible for Year 1 of The Kindergarten Program (Junior Kindergarten)
  • Children born in 2018 are eligible for Year 2 of The Kindergarten Program (Senior Kindergarten)
  • NOTE: Children currently enrolled at St. Teresa of Avila School in Year 1 (JK) do not need to register for Year 2 (SK)

Link to information about the Kindergarten Program and how to register through ASPEN.

Please have a look at what is coming up this week:


This week:

Monday, January 30

  • Mental Health Tip – Practice Deep Belly Breathing

Tuesday, January 31

  • Mental Health Tip – Practice Muscle Relaxation

Wednesday, February 1

  • Wear your Spirit Wear! Or wear red and/or blue
  • Pizza Day (if you ordered through School Cash Online)
  • Winter Walk Day!
  • Black History/Heritage Month begins

Thursday, February 2

  • Lunch Lady (if you ordered through School Cash Online)
  • Mental Health Tip – Practice Affirmations
  • Groundhog Day

Friday, February 3

  • Mental Health Tip – Practice talking about feelings

Community Partner Flyers

 


WCDSB Grade 7 Students – Spanish Exchange Opportunity

WCDSB grade 7 students: Do you want to have an incredible International Experience with other students from around the Region? Would you like to learn Spanish, travel to Spain, and make new friends?  We are once again offering students who are currently in grade 7 the opportunity to be a part of the 2023-24 Grade 8 Spanish Exchange. If you would like to learn more, plan to come to one of our Information Sessions on February 1st or 2nd. Please see the attached letters for more information.

Gr 8 Spanish Exchange Parent Letter 2023-24

Kens intro letter with QR codes_WCDSB 2023-24


A Message From Fr. Peter & Parish News

Please have a look at this week’s Parish Bulletin here: January 29 2023

Come out on February 10th for the Knights of Columbus Spaghetti Dinner from 5 pm until 7:30 pm. Takeout starts at 4:30 pm. See the Parish Bulletin for more information.

February 25th – Coldest Night of the Year Walk fundraiser for the Ray of Hope’s Community Centre.

In the bulletin, you will also find some events for the adults in the community. Be sure to check them out!


School Immunization Program for Grade 8 Students

As the Grade 7 School Immunization program was interrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Region of Waterloo is collaborating with schools to provide Grade 8 students easy access to catch up on the meningococcal vaccine (Men-ACYW-135) at school. The COVID-19 vaccine will also be available if parents are interested (not mandatory). Due to capacity limitations, Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), normally offered in Grade 7, will not be available at this catch-up clinic. More information will be shared with the grade 8 parents once the date is finalized.


Region of Waterloo Public Health Message ~ Immunization for Students Grade 7 to 12

Public Health is ready to begin enforcement of all mandatory ISPA vaccines for the 2022/2023 school year for grades 7- to 12. Due to COVID-19, the enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act was put on hold and the ability for families to access vaccines decreased. Despite recent catch-up clinics, approximately 25,000 students in grades 7-12 are missing one or more vaccines. Notices will be sent home on a rolling basis for approximately 17-20 schools sent each week. Following that, suspension orders will be mailed directly to parents/students at least three weeks before the suspension date. Suspension day for elementary school students (Grades 7 and 8 only) will be March 29, 2023. If your child receives their vaccines, please ensure the information is being sent directly to Public Health; the school does not collect this information.

Information can be sent via:


CSAC – School Council

Please go to our school webpage by visiting stteresaelmira.wcdsb.ca  and clicking on the School Council tab to check out the minutes of our last meeting and also to learn more about our Catholic School Advisory Council. Everyone is always welcome to join our next meeting on Tuesday, February 7th at 6pm. Come and see what it’s all about! If you cannot commit to joining our CSAC but would like to offer to volunteer for events when required, please email paula.pizarro@wcdsb.ca.

Click here to go directly to the CSAC webpage

CSAC Parent Outreach Letter 2022


Hot Lunches 

We are happy to share that Lunchbox by SchoolCash Online will be offered at our school for the 2022/2023 school year. Lunchbox is a convenient, online ordering platform featuring local vendors. An ordering calendar has been coordinated for the school community and can be found on our SchoolCash Online items page.

The ordering features the following options:

  • Wednesday – Twice The Deal Pizza
  • Thursday – Lunch Lady (there are some gluten-free options available)
  • Orders may be placed weekly or in advance, for the entire length of the program.

Please read the following document that shows you how to order:  How-to-Order-Guide (St. Teresa Avila)


WOOLWICH COMMUNITY SERVICES

Woolwich Community Services provides many different programs and supports for our community. Have a look at the posters for upcoming programs at The Hub. Families can follow them on social media or join their E-Blast by visiting their website at https://www.woolwichcommunityservices.org for the most up-to-date information.

WCA Brochure


The Umbrella Project Message for Parents ~ Grit!

Develop your child’s capacity to practice

The ability to practice is one the most important pieces in persevering towards complex and long-term goals.  Without the ability to sustain effort and practice over time, many big dreams go unrealised. Here are a few tips when it comes to making practice effective and sustainable for your child:

  1. Schedule practice and rest time to avoid burnout. To perform at our best we need breaks, and teaching children this early on will really help them do their best. Determine how long your child can hold focus for and then set a timer for that amount of time while working or practicing something. Take short breaks between practice sessions to get some fresh air, run around, snack and recover for the next focused practice session. For example, you could do 15 minutes of practice, take a 5 minute break and then 15 more minutes of practice. Repeat this for the duration of their working time. Timed intervals will help your child stay on task and practice well.
  1. Find tasks that help your child work at the right level for their pre-existing ability. This will help them achieve a state of engagement and concentration when practicing (otherwise known as a state of flow). To achieve this state of flow, think about what we often refer to as the Goldilocks effect. Tasks should be not too hard.. not too easy.. just right! Tasks that are too difficult tend to create anxiety and those that are too easy lead to boredom. Both those states are detrimental to our capacity to practice something. When practicing, tasks should be challenging enough to require your child to recruit many skills to accomplish the task but not so hard that they can’t succeed.  

A few thoughts in this week’s video about the Finnish concept of ‘Sisu’

Here’s to practice! 

Dr. Jen, The Umbrella Project

 

Interested in learning more? Here are a few more short and sweet videos about Grit from Dr. Jen. 

Finding joy in overcoming challenges 

Ask this question: What is the hard part? 

Connecting Grit to Gratitude 

Using conscientiousness as a tool to build grit


DAILY SCREENING & MASKING

It is important that any student not feeling well should stay home and also follow the guidance of the screening tool found on our school website.

While it is not mandatory to wear a mask – the screener does indicate in what situations and for how long we should wear a mask. It is strongly recommended that all individuals age 2 or older wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings. This includes school and child care due to the additional risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza. Children age 2 to 5 should only wear a mask if they are supervised, can safely tolerate masking, and can put their mask on and take it off.

Thanks for your support in following the screener guidance. The screener was last updated December 22, 2022.


Coming Up:

  • February 17: Term 1 Report Cards and Term 2 IEPs Go Home
  • February 20: Family Day
  • February 22: Ash Wednesday
  • February 23: Danceathon!
  • Marcy 13-17: Week of March Break
  • March 31: P.A. Day
  • April 7: Good Friday
  • April 10: Easter Monday
  • April 21: P.A. Day
  • May 1-5: Catholic Education Week
  • May 22: Victoria Day
  • June 2: P.A. Day
  • June 27: Term 2 Report Cards Go Home
  • June 29: Last Day of School

Busses Cancelled/School OPEN/Lunch Lady Orders Cancelled

January 26, 2023
All Student transportation cancelled, all schools are open
  • Due to the current road conditions, ALL SCHOOL BUSES, TAXIS AND SPECIAL EDUCATION ROUTES operated by the Waterloo Catholic District School Board and Waterloo Region District School Board are cancelled.
  • All Public and Catholic Schools are OPEN.
  • All Extended Day Childcare Programs are OPEN.
  • St. Louis online, daytime, and evening classes are open at all locations.

 

****LUNCH LADY ORDERS HAVE BEEN CANCELLED****Pack a lunch! 

St. Teresa of Avila C.E.S. ~ Weekly Update Jan. 23-27

Good afternoon Tornado Families:

We wish those in our community a Happy New Year if you are celebrating the Lunar New Year today!

We will be participating in Mental Health Anti-Stigma this week. Every day there will be activities to help our mental health. Ask your child about it this week! This is in addition to Bell Let’s Talk Day which is on Wednesday, January 25th. We have included some activities to try at home this week to start the conversation.

Our WCDSB Multi-Year Strategic Plan (MYSP) for 2022-2025 has been released. Some may wonder, what is an MYSP? An MYSP informs constituents of what the board intends to achieve, what its priorities are and how it plans to achieve them. It reflects the vision for the board including its overall purpose – mission statement – beliefs, and strategic directions. You can check out our board’s MYSP here. Here is a video from our Director Tyrone Dowling explaining the MYSP.

Do you have a child at home born in 2018 or 2019? 

You can register them now to start school in September 2023! The online registration portal through ASPEN for Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year is NOW OPEN!

  • Parents/Caregivers can now register their children online for next year’s kindergarten class. If you would like to physically come into the school to register your child, this can be done anytime in February during the school day (9 am – 2:45 pm). We will also offer one evening for registration on Thursday, February 16th, from 5 pm to 8 pm.
  • A Welcome to Kindergarten Night will be held at our school on May 18th from 6 pm to 7 pm.
  • Children born in 2019 are eligible for Year 1 of The Kindergarten Program (Junior Kindergarten)
  • Children born in 2018 are eligible for Year 2 of The Kindergarten Program (Senior Kindergarten)
  • NOTE: Children currently enrolled at St. Teresa of Avila School in Year 1 (JK) do not need to register for Year 2 (SK)

Link to information about the Kindergarten Program and how to register through ASPEN.

Please have a look at what is coming up this week:


This week:

Monday, January 23

  • Mental Health – Practice good posture

Tuesday, January 24

  • Mental Health – Practice calming breathing exercises

Wednesday, January 25

  • Bell Let’s Talk Day
  • Wear your Spirit Wear! Or wear red and/or blue
  • Pizza Day (if you ordered through School Cash Online)
  • Mental Health – Practice Gratitude – list five things you are grateful for

Thursday, January 26

  • Lunch Lady (if you ordered through School Cash Online)
  • Mental Health- Practice Breathing and Notice Exercises

Friday, January 27

  • Mental Health – Go for a walk

Community Partner Flyers

 

 


WCDSB Grade 7 Students – Spanish Exchange Opportunity

WCDSB grade 7 students: Do you want to have an incredible International Experience with other students from around the Region? Would you like to learn Spanish, travel to Spain, and make new friends?  We are once again offering students who are currently in grade 7 the opportunity to be a part of the 2023-24 Grade 8 Spanish Exchange. If you would like to learn more, plan to come to one of our Information Sessions on February 1st or 2nd. Please see the attached letters for more information.

Gr 8 Spanish Exchange Parent Letter 2023-24

Kens intro letter with QR codes_WCDSB 2023-24


A Message From Fr. Peter & Parish News

Please have a look at this week’s Parish Bulletin here: Go http://www.stteresaelmira.ca/ or http://www.parishbulletins.com/bulletins/191/

At the time of this Newswire, the last Parish Bulletin was dated January 15, 2023.

The St. Teresa of Avila SUNDAY CHILDREN’S LITURGY PROGRAM, for children JK to Grade 2, has begun at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass.  All are welcome! The parish is also looking for parent volunteers to help with this program. Please contact the church if interested.

 

Please pray for our Parish Administrator, who had knee surgery on November 30th and will be away until the end of February.  Please also pray for those who will be helping in the Parish Office at that time.


Region of Waterloo Public Health Message ~ Immunization for Students Grade 7 to 12

Public Health is ready to begin enforcement of all mandatory ISPA vaccines for the 2022/2023 school year for grades 7- to 12. Due to COVID-19, the enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act was put on hold and the ability for families to access vaccines decreased. Despite recent catch-up clinics, approximately 25,000 students in grades 7-12 are missing one or more vaccines. Notices will be sent home on a rolling basis for approximately 17-20 schools sent each week. Following that, suspension orders will be mailed directly to parents/students at least three weeks before the suspension date. Suspension day for elementary school students (Grades 7 and 8 only) will be March 29, 2023. If your child receives their vaccines, please ensure the information is being sent directly to Public Health; the school does not collect this information.

Information can be sent via:


CSAC – School Council

Please go to our school webpage by visiting stteresaelmira.wcdsb.ca  and clicking on the School Council tab to check out the minutes of our last meeting and also to learn more about our Catholic School Advisory Council. Everyone is always welcome to join our next meeting on Tuesday, February 7th at 6pm. Come and see what it’s all about! If you cannot commit to joining our CSAC but would like to offer to volunteer for events when required, please email paula.pizarro@wcdsb.ca.

Click here to go directly to the CSAC webpage

CSAC Parent Outreach Letter 2022


Hot Lunches 

We are happy to share that Lunchbox by SchoolCash Online will be offered at our school for the 2022/2023 school year. Lunchbox is a convenient, online ordering platform featuring local vendors. An ordering calendar has been coordinated for the school community and can be found on our SchoolCash Online items page.

The ordering features the following options:

  • Wednesday – Twice The Deal Pizza
  • Thursday – Lunch Lady (there are some gluten-free options available)
  • Orders may be placed weekly or in advance, for the entire length of the program.

Please read the following document that shows you how to order:  How-to-Order-Guide (St. Teresa Avila)


WOOLWICH COMMUNITY SERVICES

Woolwich Community Services provides many different programs and supports for our community. Have a look at the posters for upcoming programs at The Hub. Families can follow them on social media or join their E-Blast by visiting their website at https://www.woolwichcommunityservices.org for the most up-to-date information.

WCA Brochure


The Umbrella Project Message for Parents ~ Grit!

Think of small and meaningful ways you can connect day-to-day work with a higher sense of purpose.  

Some very interesting research on grit showed that when students reflected on purpose, they worked harder on tedious math problems, when given the option to watch entertaining videos instead. This doubled the amount of time they spent studying for exams. 

It seems that living a life that reflects a bigger purpose also cultivates our ability to persevere towards our goals – our grit!  Help your children continue to think of small ways they can make school align with their core values and how the work they are doing is building towards something bigger.  

So start with the Why.’ Many students work hard but report having no idea “why,” no bigger vision for their education. We can do a lot to build grit just by helping our children understand why they are learning what they are learning. Without this, school can feel boring or meaningless and won’t help our children sustain effort throughout their education.

Health & Happiness, 

Dr. Jen, The Umbrella Project


DAILY SCREENING & MASKING

It is important that any student not feeling well should stay home and also follow the guidance of the screening tool found on our school website.

While it is not mandatory to wear a mask – the screener does indicate in what situations and for how long we should wear a mask. It is strongly recommended that all individuals age 2 or older wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings. This includes school and child care due to the additional risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza. Children age 2 to 5 should only wear a mask if they are supervised, can safely tolerate masking, and can put their mask on and take it off.

Thanks for your support in following the screener guidance. The screener was last updated December 22, 2022.


Coming Up:

  • February 1: Winter Walk Day!
  • February 17: Term 1 Report Cards and Term 2 IEPs Go Home
  • February 20: Family Day
  • February 22: Ash Wednesday
  • February 23: Danceathon!
  • Marcy 13-17: Week of March Break
  • March 31: P.A. Day
  • April 7: Good Friday
  • April 10: Easter Monday
  • April 21: P.A. Day
  • May 1-5: Catholic Education Week
  • May 22: Victoria Day
  • June 2: P.A. Day
  • June 27: Term 2 Report Cards Go Home
  • June 29: Last Day of School

St. Teresa of Avila C.E.S. ~ Weekly Updates Jan. 16-20

Good afternoon Tornado Families:

Welcome to a new week at Saint Teresa of Avila. Thank you to all for making our first week back a success. Hopefully, this upcoming week will provide a little sunshine to make our days a little brighter. This is a reminder that this Friday is a P.A. Day, so there is no school for the students. Extended Day is operational for students who are in the program.

WANTED:  NEW TORNADOES TO JOIN OUR SCHOOL! The online registration portal through ASPEN for Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year is NOW OPEN!

  • Parents/Caregivers can now register their children online for next year’s kindergarten class. If you would like to physically come into the school to register your child, this can be done anytime in February during the school day (9 am – 2:45 pm). We will also offer one evening for registration on Thursday, February 16th, from 5 pm to 8 pm.
  • A Welcome to Kindergarten Night will be held at our school on May 18th from 6 pm to 7 pm.
  • Children born in 2019 are eligible for Year 1 of The Kindergarten Program (Junior Kindergarten)
  • Children born in 2018 are eligible for Year 2 of The Kindergarten Program (Senior Kindergarten)
  • NOTE: Children currently enrolled at St. Teresa of Avila School in Year 1 (JK) do not need to register for Year 2 (SK)

Link to information about the Kindergarten Program and how to register through ASPEN.

Please have a look at what is coming up this week:


This week:

Monday, January 16

  • Learn about Martin Luther King Jr.

Tuesday, January 17

  • 6:30 pm EQAO Parent Outreach Webinar

Wednesday, January 18

  • Wear your Spirit Wear! Or wear red and/or blue
  • Pizza Day (if you ordered through School Cash Online)

Thursday, January 19

  • Lunch Lady (if you ordered through School Cash Online)

Friday, January 20

  • P.A. Day – No school for students (Extended Day program is operating)

Jan. 17 ~ EQAO Parent Information Session (6:30 pm)

EQAO Parent Outreach Webinar | Jan. 17, 2023

Parents and Guardians will gain an understanding of EQAO and the Primary and Junior division assessments.

Learn about EQAO assessment results and Ontario’s large-scale assessment program at the elementary-school level by registering for a webinar.

The session is approximately 45 minutes, followed by a live question-and-answer session with EQAO staff. See the flyer for details | EQAO _ Parent Event _ Outreach.pdf


Community Partner Flyers


WCDSB Grade 7 Students – Spanish Exchange Opportunity

WCDSB grade 7 students: Do you want to have an incredible International Experience with other students from around the Region? Would you like to learn Spanish, travel to Spain, and make new friends?  We are once again offering students who are currently in grade 7 the opportunity to be a part of the 2023-24 Grade 8 Spanish Exchange. If you would like to learn more, plan to come to one of our Information Sessions on February 1st or 2nd. Please see the attached letters for more information.

Gr 8 Spanish Exchange Parent Letter 2023-24

Kens intro letter with QR codes_WCDSB 2023-24


A Message From Fr. Peter & Parish News

Please have a look at this week’s Parish Bulletin here: January 15 2023

In this bulletin, you will find information about:

  • Knights of Columbus membership drive
  • The Catholic Date Night
  • Feb. 25 – Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser

The St. Teresa of Avila SUNDAY CHILDREN’S LITURGY PROGRAM, for children JK to Grade 2, has begun at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass.  All are welcome! The parish is also looking for parent volunteers to help with this program. Please contact the church if interested.

 

Please pray for our Parish Administrator, who had knee surgery on November 30th and will be away until the end of February.  Please also pray for those who will be helping in the Parish Office at that time.


Region of Waterloo Public Health Message ~ Immunization for Students Grade 7 to 12

Public Health is ready to begin enforcement of all mandatory ISPA vaccines for the 2022/2023 school year for grades 7- to 12. Due to COVID-19, the enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act was put on hold and the ability for families to access vaccines decreased. Despite recent catch-up clinics, approximately 25,000 students in grades 7-12 are missing one or more vaccines. Notices will be sent home on a rolling basis for approximately 17-20 schools sent each week. Following that, suspension orders will be mailed directly to parents/students at least three weeks before the suspension date. Suspension day for elementary school students (Grades 7 and 8 only) will be March 29, 2023. If your child receives their vaccines, please ensure the information is being sent directly to Public Health; the school does not collect this information.

Information can be sent via:


 

CSAC – School Council

Please go to our school webpage by visiting stteresaelmira.wcdsb.ca  and clicking on the School Council tab to check out the minutes of our last meeting and also to learn more about our Catholic School Advisory Council. Everyone is always welcome to join our next meeting on Tuesday, February 7th at 6pm. Come and see what it’s all about! If you cannot commit to joining our CSAC but would like to offer to volunteer for events when required, please email paula.pizarro@wcdsb.ca.

Click here to go directly to the CSAC webpage

CSAC Parent Outreach Letter 2022


Hot Lunches 

We are happy to share that Lunchbox by SchoolCash Online will be offered at our school for the 2022/2023 school year. Lunchbox is a convenient, online ordering platform featuring local vendors. An ordering calendar has been coordinated for the school community and can be found on our SchoolCash Online items page.

The ordering features the following options:

  • Wednesday – Twice The Deal Pizza
  • Thursday – Lunch Lady (there are some gluten-free options available)
  • Orders may be placed weekly or in advance, for the entire length of the program.

Please read the following document that shows you how to order:  How-to-Order-Guide (St. Teresa Avila)


WOOLWICH COMMUNITY SERVICES

Woolwich Community Services provides many different programs and supports for our community. Have a look at the posters for upcoming programs at The Hub. Families can follow them on social media or join their E-Blast by visiting their website at https://www.woolwichcommunityservices.org for the most up-to-date information.

WCA Brochure


The Umbrella Project Message for Parents ~ Grit!

Don’t just ponder on what you are passionate about… get out there and try as many things as you can!

Grit isn’t just about perseverance. Passion for your goals goes a long way in helping you stick with something long term. The guru of grit, Angela Duckworth, has found that introspection isn’t going to give your kids the passion they need for developing grit. They can’t just sit around thinking about what they care about. To truly follow the path of passion and purpose they need to get out there and try lots of different stuff. This will allow them to really understand what motivates them, what gets them out of bed in the morning and down the road. This is one of the most important bits of sustained grit. We’ve all had the experience of thinking we would love a sport, subject or job, much to our dismay when we actually get a chance to try it and find it’s not what we thought it would be. 

When you see an opportunity for your child to try something new, jump on it. Let action be their guide in finding that longer term goal, job or pursuit that they can really get behind. Take time to debrief with them after new experiences so you can support them in doing more of what they are passionate about.

You can watch this week’s short video here. (And hear me sing!)

Can’t wait to see what your child tries, 

Dr. Jen, The Umbrella Project


DAILY SCREENING & MASKING

Fall cold/flu season is here– it is important that any student not feeling well should stay home and also follow the guidance of the screening tool found on our school website.

While it is not mandatory to wear a mask – the screener does indicate in what situations and for how long we should wear a mask. It is strongly recommended that all individuals age 2 or older wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings. This includes school and child care due to the additional risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza. Children age 2 to 5 should only wear a mask if they are supervised, can safely tolerate masking, and can put their mask on and take it off.

Thanks for your support in following the screener guidance. The screener was last updated December 22, 2022.


Coming Up:

  • January 25: Bell Let’s Talk Day
  • February 1: Winter Walk Day!
  • February 3: Tentative date for Danceathon (in the process of being moved to later in the month of Feb.)
  • February 17: Term 1 Report Cards and Term 2 IEPs Go Home
  • February 20: Family Day
  • February 22: Ash Wednesday
  • Marcy 13-17: Week of March Break
  • March 31: P.A. Day
  • April 7: Good Friday
  • April 10: Easter Monday
  • April 21: P.A. Day
  • May 1-5: Catholic Education Week
  • May 22: Victoria Day
  • June 2: P.A. Day
  • June 27: Term 2 Report Cards Go Home
  • June 29: Last Day of School

St. Teresa of Avila C.E.S. ~ Weekly Update Jan. 9-13

Good afternoon Tornado Families:

We wish you all a Happy New Year, and we welcome our staff and students back tomorrow to kick off 2023! We hope all our families had a restful break and spent time together as a family at Christmas. We are looking forward to working together as a school community as we continue the month of January and onward. Have a great first day and first week back, everyone!

The online registration portal through ASPEN for Kindergarten registration for the 2023-2024 school year will open Monday, January 9th.

  • Traditionally, JK Registrations for school boards take place in February for the upcoming school year. We will share the dates soon when you can complete registrations at the school.
  • A Welcome to Kindergarten Night will be held at our school in late May to answer parent questions (date to be determined soon)
  • Children born in 2019 are eligible for Year 1 of The Kindergarten Program (Junior Kindergarten)
  • Children born in 2018 are eligible for Year 2 of The Kindergarten Program (Senior Kindergarten)
  • NOTE: Children currently enrolled at St. Teresa of Avila School in Year 1 (JK) do not need to register for Year 2 (SK)

Link to information about the Kindergarten Program and how to register through ASPEN.

Please have a look at what is coming up this week:


This week:

Monday, January 9

  • Complete COVID screener before school
  • Welcome Back to School!

Tuesday, January 10

  • Grades 2 and 7 to Laurel Creek

Wednesday, January 11

  • Wear your Spirit Wear! Or wear red and/or blue
  • Pizza Day (if you ordered through School Cash Online)

Thursday, January 12

  • Lunch Lady (if you ordered through School Cash Online)

Friday, January 13

  • Breathe deeply as you have just completed your first week of school after the holidays!

 

A Message From Fr. Peter & Parish News

Please have a look at this week’s Parish Bulletin here: January 1 2023

In this bulletin, you will find information about:

  • Jan. 12 – Effective Problem Solving with our Children and Teens (presented by Woolwich Counselling Centre)
  • Jan. 16 – Motivation and Goal Setting 101 Adult Workshop
  • Jan. 24 – Mastering Your Money: A Financial Wellness Presentation
  • Jan. 25 – Let’s Talk About Mental Health: Learning Skills to Support Others – Adult Workshop
  • Jan. 26 – Coping with the Winter Blues – Adult Workshop
  • Jan. 26 – Lecture in Catholic Experience – St. Jerome’s University
  • Caregiver Support Group – Check the Bulletin for dates and times
  • Breathing and Connecting Together – Child and Caregiver Yoga and Mindfulness Group Ages 5-9: Mondays for 5 weeks beginning Jan. 16th
  • Feb. 25 – Coldest Night of the Year Fundraiser
  • Father needs a little help at the parish and also some light housekeeping duties.

The St. Teresa of Avila SUNDAY CHILDREN’S LITURGY PROGRAM, for children JK to Grade 2, has begun at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass.  All are welcome! The parish is also looking for parent volunteers to help with this program. Please contact the church if interested.

 

Please pray for our Parish Administrator, who had knee surgery on November 30th and will be away until the end of February.  Please also pray for those who will be helping in the Parish Office at that time.


Region of Waterloo Public Health Message ~ Immunization for Students Grade 7 to 12

Public Health is ready to begin enforcement of all mandatory ISPA vaccines for the 2022/2023 school year for grades 7- to 12. Due to COVID-19, the enforcement of the Immunization of School Pupils Act was put on hold and the ability for families to access vaccines decreased. Despite recent catch-up clinics, approximately 25,000 students in grades 7-12 are missing one or more vaccines. Notices will be sent home on a rolling basis for approximately 17-20 schools sent each week. Following that, suspension orders will be mailed directly to parents/students at least three weeks before the suspension date. Suspension day for elementary school students (Grades 7 and 8 only) will be March 29, 2023. If your child receives their vaccines, please ensure the information is being sent directly to Public Health; the school does not collect this information.

Information can be sent via:


Jan. 17 ~ EQAO Parent Information Session

EQAO Parent Outreach Webinar | Jan. 17, 2023

Parents and Guardians will gain an understanding of EQAO and the Primary and Junior division assessments.

Learn about EQAO assessment results and Ontario’s large-scale assessment program at the elementary-school level by registering for a webinar.

The session is approximately 45 minutes, followed by a live question-and-answer session with EQAO staff. See the flyer for details | EQAO _ Parent Event _ Outreach.pdf


CSAC – School Council

Please go to our school webpage by visiting stteresaelmira.wcdsb.ca  and clicking on the School Council tab to check out the minutes of our last meeting and also to learn more about our Catholic School Advisory Council. Everyone is always welcome to join our next meeting on Tuesday, February 7th at 6pm. Come and see what it’s all about! If you cannot commit to joining our CSAC but would like to offer to volunteer for events when required, please email paula.pizarro@wcdsb.ca.

Click here to go directly to the CSAC webpage

CSAC Parent Outreach Letter 2022


Hot Lunches 

We are happy to share that Lunchbox by SchoolCash Online will be offered at our school for the 2022/2023 school year. Lunchbox is a convenient, online ordering platform featuring local vendors. An ordering calendar has been coordinated for the school community and can be found on our SchoolCash Online items page.

The ordering features the following options:

  • Wednesday – Twice The Deal Pizza
  • Thursday – Lunch Lady (there are some gluten-free options available)
  • Orders may be placed weekly or in advance, for the entire length of the program.

Please read the following document that shows you how to order:  How-to-Order-Guide (St. Teresa Avila)


WOOLWICH COMMUNITY SERVICES

Woolwich Community Services provides many different programs and supports for our community. Have a look at the posters for upcoming programs at The Hub. Families can follow them on social media or join their E-Blast by visiting their website at https://www.woolwichcommunityservices.org for the most up-to-date information.

WCA Brochure


The Umbrella Project Message for Parents ~ Grit!

Welcome to a new month at the Umbrella Project! This month we are shifting our focus to a skill that helps us persevere in the face of challenges, Grit!  

Grit is the skill that stops us from quitting on the bad days and gives us courage to persevere towards our goals and passions. With the cold weather we could all use a bit of extra grit to get through those chilly winter challenges.

What will grit do for my child?

Excellence in anything we do requires commitment, hard work and failures along the way. Grit helps us continue to practice the things we would like to improve instead of giving up. Having grit can help us overcome obstacles even on the toughest days. In every type of work or school subject, grit can be as important to our success as talent or intelligence. It allows us to rise to the challenge of difficult goals and run the last mile.

Make working on weak spots a game

Even in the face of abundant strengths, our weaknesses will often lead us to give up. As often as you can, find the game in working on your child’s weaknesses. Practicing anything can be intense and span many years to get to a level of excellence. Try to help your child find the fun in the tough spots instead of feeling like they aren’t good enough.  

Here’s an example: 

When my daughter was struggling with how quickly she could do mental math, we found ways to make it a fun challenge by engaging her in games designed specifically to increase processing speed. By adding some fun to this otherwise frustrating task, she was able to quickly improve and move on with renewed confidence.  

In addition, remember that fun and laughter also improves cognitive flexibility and can help our children think of new ways to solve the problems they are facing.  

Here’s this week’s short video about Grit.

Until next time, 

Dr. Jen, The Umbrella Project


DAILY SCREENING & MASKING

Fall cold/flu season is here– it is important that any student not feeling well should stay home and also follow the guidance of the screening tool found on our school website.

While it is not mandatory to wear a mask – the screener does indicate in what situations and for how long we should wear a mask. It is strongly recommended that all individuals age 2 or older wear a well-fitted mask in indoor public settings. This includes school and child care due to the additional risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and influenza. Children age 2 to 5 should only wear a mask if they are supervised, can safely tolerate masking, and can put their mask on and take it off.

Thanks for your support in following the screener guidance. The screener was last updated December 22, 2022.


Coming Up:

  • January 20: P.A. Day
  • February 3: Tentative date for Danceathon
  • February 17: Term 1 Report Cards and Term 2 IEPs Go Home
  • February 20: Family Day
  • February 22: Ash Wednesday
  • Marcy 13-17: Week of March Break
  • March 31: P.A. Day
  • April 7: Good Friday
  • April 10: Easter Monday
  • April 21: P.A. Day
  • May 1-5: Catholic Education Week
  • May 22: Victoria Day
  • June 2: P.A. Day
  • June 27: Term 2 Report Cards Go Home
  • June 29: Last Day of School

Easy and Fun Activities for Home Over the Holidays

Winter holidays can be a time to relax, unwind and spend time with family. At the same time, the
break can bring challenges. The change in routine may be difficult for little ones, and we adults
may become stressed due to added pressures during this time of year. Try this series of 12 mental
health activities designed for parents and families to practice at home. They’re connected to six
areas of social-emotional learning and are also available for download with all activities. Try
them together and see the benefits for the whole family when you each find techniques that work best for you.

Mental Health Activities for Home during the Winter Break (Elementary)

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