Happy Holidays!

Happy Holidays and all the best for the New Year. 
School will resume January 7, 2013.

Ward Forum

Lambton Kingsway is hosting Trustee Gough's and Trustee Glover's Ward Forum on Tuesday January 29, 2013 from 7 - 9 pm.   Guest speakers will be Annie Kidder, Executive Director for People for Education and Kate Hammer, Education Reporter for The Globe and Mail.  For more information, please go to Trustee Gough's website.  Here is the link:
http://www.tdsb.on.ca/_site/viewitem.asp?siteid=167&pageid=167&menuid=167

Second Harvest Donations

Congratulations to Ms. Walker and the students of 5A for all of their efforts to raise awareness of those in need and for collecting a great deal of food for Second Harvest.  Thank you also to the LKS community for supporting this initiative!

Sandy Hook Letter to Parents

The events at Sandy Hook Elementary on Friday have shocked and saddened all of us.  Such a tragedy makes us all reflect and search for answers.  The TDSB has responded with a letter to parents and some tips for parents to help support their children.  You will find these letters on the main page of the LKS website under the "TDSB and LKS Notices" section.   http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/lambtonkingsway/Home.aspx

The TDSB and LKS take the safety of all children seriously.  We will continue to do everything in our power to create a safe environment.  The Director of the TDSB Dr. Chris Spence spoke candidly with the Toronto Star about the tragedy.  Here is part of his message to parents:

"To parents, I will say this — your children are safe. Doors are locked, cameras are on, and other security measures are in place. But most importantly, with close to 40,000 staff at the TDSB, you will always have tens of thousands of moms, dads, sisters and brothers looking out for them."

For the full story go to:

http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/article/1303049--connecticut-school-shooting-heavy-with-hurt-in-toronto

Making a Difference!

Ms. Walker and the students from 5A will once again be supporting Second Harvest by organizing the LKS Holiday Food Drive.  5A is working hard to make a difference in the lives of many families that are in need, especially important during the holiday season.  Starting next week, these students will be going from class to class to remind students about the LKS Food Drive.   If you are able to support this cause, please bring in a non-perishable food items and place it in the bin outside the main office. 

Congratulations 5A and thank you to the LKS community for your support!

Empathy

As a class text assignment, Mrs. Adair inspired her students to explore Empathy and make personal connections.  Daria, one of Mrs Adair's Gr 3 students did just that.  Daria's text below is truly amazing!  Not only did Daria receive the class award for Empathy, but she also presented her text to all grades 1 - 3 students at the recognition assembly.  Congratulations Daria!  We are all very proud of you!

Here is what Daria wrote.

Storyteller visit

Author and storyteller Rukhsana Khan visited with Kindergarten to Grade 6 students today.   She spoke about the story writing, editing and publishing process and discussed the importance of literacy.  For more information on Rukhsana Khan, feel free to visit her website.  http://www.rukhsanakhan.com/    Thank you to the LKS parent council for supporting this presentation.

K - 12 Consultation Meeting

On Wednesday, November 14, there will be an opportunity for parents and community members from Etobicoke Centre to participate in a K – 12 Consultation.  The session will be in the library of Islington JMS from 7:00 – 9:00 pm.   See the link below for more information.

http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/strategyplanning/home/haveyoursay-shapingourfuture.aspx

Hugh Brewster Visit

Author Hugh Brewster visited LKS today and spoke to the Grade 3 - 8 classes.  Students were engaged in his storytelling and the details he provided on the Canadian assault on Vimy Ridge during WWII.  He spoke about his many books as well and the process or researching and writing.  A bigh thank you to Ms. McGee for organizing the visit and for the LKS parent council for supporting this visit.  For more information on Hugh Brewster, feel free to visit his web site.
http://www.hughbrewster.com/

Toronto and Region Conservation Authority - Flood Watch

The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority has Issued a Flood Watch until October 31, as a result of remnant precipitation from Hurricane Sandy.  Here is the link for further information.

http://www.trca.on.ca/flood-monitoring/forecast/146219

A Halloween message from Officer Rich

A HALLOWEEN MESSAGE FOR CHILDREN FROM “OFFICER RICH,”


1) Visit only houses with the lights on.

2) Use face paint or makeup instead of a mask.

3) Wear bright/reflexive costumes so that you will be seen.

4) Never take shortcuts through backyards, parks or laneways.

5) Stay away from lit pumpkins.

6) Don’t eat any treats/candy unless they are checked by a parent, or the person looking after you.

7) Carry a glow stick or flashlight.

8) Obey all of the traffic signs.

9) Trick or treat with your parent(s) or in a group, it’s safer.

10) Always walk on the sidewalk and trick or treat on one side of the street, then the other side. DO NOT criss-cross on the street.

11) Watch out for cars, it can be hard for drivers to see you.


REMEMBER STUDENTS; WE HAVE “RULES” TO KEEP US SAFE, SO PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE HALLOWEEN RULES, SO THAT YOU STAY SAFE.

Happy Halloween,

“Officer Rich”

Making a Difference!

Our very own LKS students Jason and Riley are making a difference!  The boys are promoting the Change for Kids Campaign which supports Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.  Holland Bloorview has helped change the lives of many students with disabilities, including LKS students past and present. 
The Change for Kids campaign is about celebrating Halloween, while giving trick-or-treaters the opportunity to help kids with disabilities realize their full potential.


Today, Jason and Riley did an outstanding job launching their campaign at LKS with a morning announcement.  They shared with the LKS community their personal connection to Holland Bloorivew and a very clear message about making a difference!  The boys then went class to class discussing the importance of helping others and shared their desire to make a difference in the lives of others, especially those in need.  The boys also handed out the Change for Kids Cards.  With the support of Scotiabank, the cards were donated to LKS for every student to take home.  All that was asked of the students was to hand out the 20 trick-or-treat coins on each card during Halloween and to tell children receiving the coins to activate them online.  For each coin activated, Scotiabank will make a $5 donation to Holland Bloorview.  For more information: http://www.changeforkids.ca/

Congratulation boys and thank you for making a difference!
 

 

Week in Review

TDSB and LKS take a stand against bullying!
Today, the TDSB took a stand against bullying.  250,000 TDSB students and 40,000 staff were asked to pause for one minute of silence in remembrance of bullying victims who are no longer with us and to support those who are being bullied right now.   During the LKS moment of silence, students were asked to reflect about what to do if they were being bullied, how to support a friend being bullied, and what to do to stop bullying.

Peer Helpers Training at LKS
Yesterday, 50 Grade 6 students were trained in conflict resolution at LKS.  These Peer Helpers work in groups and assist younger students during recess with any problems that may arise.  Thank you to Ms. Chandra and Ms. Perrin for facilitating the training!

Terry Fox Assembly

What a way to end the week!  Congratulations to the LKS community for raising over $22 000 for the Terry Fox Foundation.  This afternoon, students and teachers participated in the final assembly for the year.  Student helpers were recognized as was Ms. Gibson.  We wish to thank all the student helpers and Ms. Gibson for her leadership in organizing this campaign.  The assembly included a Staff vs. Student dodge ball game and a mystery pail dump.  Below you see from left to right Mr. Littlejohn, Mr. Ross, Mr. Bracht, and Ms. Raymond preparing for the pail dump.  Fun was had by all and it was for  great cause.

Photo Re-take Day and Sibling Photo
Next Wednesday, October 24th, the school photographer will return for photo re-takes and for sibling photo's.  Please return the form that went home this week if you wish your children to have a group photo.  Feel free to contact the office if you require more information.

Lice Fact Sheet

Lice is a very unfortunate yet very common occurrence at all schools, including LKS.  We have noticed an increase and would appreciate you support.  Below you will find a link to a Fact Sheet from Toronto Public Health with information regarding treatment and prevention. 

http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/Portals/lambtonkingsway/docs/head_lice_factsheet.pdf

Jump Start Grade 6 Music Camp

Today, students from Lambton Kingsway, Norseman and Park Lawn participated in the LKS Jump Start Music Camp.  Grade 6 students new to instrumental music were given very specific individual and small group instruction by music specialists.  Students had a wonderful day and especially enjoyed the performance at the end of the day by the musical instructors.  A big thank you to Mr. Samotowka and Mr. Goldberg for organizing this day, for the parent volunteers, and for the support of the LKS parent council which made this day possible.

LKS celebrates the International Day of the Girl

Last March, the United Nations declared October 11 the International Day of the Girl to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face around the world.  Yesterday, Ms Zappi and her Grade 4 class celebrated in their own way.  Children came together to share stories and create wonderful performances.   There was much discussion surrounding the unique challenges girls face  and recognizing the importance of social change.  Thank you to Ms. Zappi and her class for participating in this first-ever event.  Congratulations!

Happy Thanksgiving!

HappyThanksgiving and have a wonderful long-weekend!

Special Guest

Grade 5 students today were honoured to have a very special presentation by retired City Counsellor Michael Walker, father of our very own Ms. Walker.  Counsellor Walker server the City of Toronto for 28 years as a City Counsellor and 4 years as a school trustee.  He discussed with the students the importance of government and democracy, the election process, and how campaigns are run.

Thank you to Ms. Walker for organizing and to Counsellor Walker for not only visiting but for presenting each Grade 5 student with their very own City of Toronto pin!

Students engaged in a Q &A period.

Ms. Walker showing one of her father's campaign signs.

  

Week in Review

What a busy week at Lambton Kingsway!   The entire school has been extremely motivated surrounding our Terry Fox Campaign.  Many thanks to Ms. Gibson and the LKS community.  We have raised over $16 000 to date with the ultimate goal being $25 000.

This week we also had students attend the Me to We conference.  These students are part of the LKS Seeds of Hope Committee who focus their efforts and meetings on helping others locally and around the world.  Way to go!

Best of luck to our cross country teams next week as they participate west region qualifiers.  Also, I would also like to wish Mr. Elias all the best for his retirement.  Today was his last day at LKS and we will all miss him.

Have a great weekend!

Way to go LKS!

Today, students received extra recess as a result of reaching their first Terry Fox Campaign Goal.  Congratulations on raising $5000!  The overall goal this year is $25000.    A big thank you to Ms. Gibson, the Terry Fox Helpers and the LKS community for their support!

Photo Day

Just a reminder that LKS Photo Day will be on September 19th or September 20th. 
Classroom teachers have sent out specific class dates. 

Remember to Smile for the camera!

Hockey Donations Needed

Once again, I am in the process of seeking donations of Hockey Equipment for a program I am involved with called The TDSB Hockey Academy.  This hockey / mentorship program offers Sixty grade 5 boys and girls in the southwest part of the city a chance to play hockey. These students might otherwise not have the opportunity to play.  Your donations are greatly appreciated and thank you already to parents who have dropped off equipment.  Last year, we also made a connection with a Rexdale boys and girls club so any donations we do not use find a home with other children. 

Here is a clip from the TDSB website for more information.

http://www.tdsb.on.ca/about_us/media_room/Room.asp?show=allNews&view=detailed&self=31878

If you would more information, feel free to call me at the school or email me.  Chris.Lanis@tdsb.on.ca

Thank you!

First Week

This has been such a great week.  Students have started to adjust to new classroom routines and are making new friends in their classes.  It has been great to see the children having so much fun.

As a reminder to everyone, curriculum night at LKS will be on Tuesday.  Please have a look on our website for the schedule.   http://schoolweb.tdsb.on.ca/lambtonkingsway/Home.aspx

Photo Day has also been scheduled for September 19 or 20.  More specific times and dates for each class will be available next week and will be communicated by the homeroom teacher.

Welcome Back!

Welcome back LKS!  The first day of school today was great.  It was wonderful to see all the children full of energy and excited to return.  I wish everyone a great year!  Check my blog often as I will update regularly with general information, events and activities.

Hope to see you all soon!

Have a wonderful summer!

Another school year has come to an end and I would like to thank the LKS staff, parents and community for making LKS a wonderful place to be. Have a safe and happy summer!  School will begin September 4th.

Hot Weather Reminders

Please remind your children to drink lots of water during these very hot days.  Wearing a hat and sunscreen is also a must.  At lunchtime during the heat and smog advisory days, students will be allowed to enter the school gym to cool down.   

Yellow Fish Road Program

Trout Unlimited Canada's Yellow Fish Road Program visited our Grade 7 students today to discuss pollution and our water systems.  This nation-wide environmental education initiative aims to raise awareness about pollution entering local waterbodies through storm drains.  Keep a look out in our community for yellow painted fish next to storm drains.  Thank you to Ruth Morisson and Ms. Moser for organizing.

For more information, please check out their website. http://www.yellowfishroad.org/ .

Ontario Fun Pass

The Ontario Fun Pass is back.  The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport will offer the Ontario Fun Pass online at http://www.ontariofunpass.com./ .  Just type in your child’s last name and school board, print the coupons and redeem them at any of the participating Ontario attractions. It’s that simple.

EcoSchools GOLD Certification

Congratulations LKS on once again achieving EcoSchools GOLD Certification!

Thank you to all the teachers, students and parents involved! 

 

Visiting Author - Hugh Brewster

Canadian author Hugh Brewster visited the Grades 4 - 8 classes today to share stories from his new book, Inside the Titanic.  Students thoroughly enjoyed his presentation!

June 1 - No school

There are no classes for students tomorrow, June 1st.   Have a wonderful weekend!

Road Closure - Prince Edward Drive

Earlier today we contacted 22 Division when we heard Toronto Police were blocking traffic at Bloor and Prince Edward due to a suspicious package attached to a lamp pole. Toronto Police suspected it was a small pipe-bomb and assured us there was little danger to the community.   Just recently we were notified that the package was not a pipe-bomb and was of no danger to the community.  Roads have been opened up again.  Thank you to all the community members who kept us informed.

Student Safety Committee: Co-operation

This month the student safety committee was working hard on promoting the TDSB Character Trait of Co-operation.  Students started the month off by making announcements encouraging students to Co-operate and work together.  Their slogan was "Together we're better".

The students themselves also worked very hard to create a poster which is on display outside the main office.

Earth Week

Earth week at LKS was a huge success!  Not only were students involved in an yard cleanup and student-led ECO assembly, but students also participated in an ECO-Oympics event.  Students rotated through several stations learning about the environment and conservation.

Thank you to all the students, teachers and parents for their help in making this week such a huge success!

Students learning about local species.

A fun ECO-Olympics activity!

LKS Math Contest

Congratulations to all of the students who took part in this year’s grade 4 to 8 Math League contests. We had over 170 students who competed in this year's contests.  A very big THANK YOU also to Mrs. Heath for her hard work organizing this event at LKS.

This year’s contest winners are as follows:

Grade 4
1st place – Kira
2nd place – Sam
3rd place – SeungJu

Grade 5
1st place – Byoungun
2nd place – Jack
3rd place – Jack

Grade 6
1st place - Rebecca
2nd place – Lyle
3rd place – Alison

Grade 7
1st place – Scott
2nd place – Lauren and Jackson (tie)
3rd place – Turner

Grade 8
1st place – Eric
2nd place – Evan
3rd place – Zachary

Ontario Fun Pass - 2012

The Ontario Fun Pass is back.  Starting in June, the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport will offer the Ontario Fun Pass online at http://www.ontariofunpass.com./  Just type in your child’s last name and school board, print the coupons and redeem them at any of the participating Ontario attractions. It’s that simple!

2012 Ontario Student, Parent, and Educator Survey Release

The Ontario Student Trustees’ Association-l’Association des élèves conseillers et conseillères de l’Ontario (OSTA-AECO) has released the 2012 Ontario Student, Parent, and Educator Survey.  The Ontario Student Survey is a student initiated and student led survey with 10 questions on hot educational topics, as selected by students.　
If you are interested in completing the survey, it can be found at:
 http://www.studentsurvey.ca./

TDSB Day of Pink

Wednesday, April 11, 2012 the TDSB will celebrate the Day of Pink.  The Day of Pink was born when a high school student in Cambridge, Nova Scotia was bullied when he wore a pink shirt to school. Two classmates decided to stand up by buying pink t-shirts, to give to others in their school. The next day, hundreds of students came to school wearing pink to show support for their classmate and stop homophobia and bullying.  

Long Weekend!

Have a wonderful weekend!  There will be no school April 6 and April 9 for Good Friday / Easter Monday.

Grade 1 Firefighter Visit

The Grade 1 classes today had a visit from Captain Ron Jones from Toronto fire Services.  Captain Jones discussed the importance of smoke alarms, general fire safety and emergency services including when to call 911.  This was a very informative presentation and we thank Captain Jones for taking the time to speak with the children.

Captain Jones discussing 911 calls.

Captain Jones speaking to the children about Emergency Services.

Visiting Author @ LKS today

Marina Cohen, Red Maple List acclaimed author, visited our students in grades 4 - 8 today.  Marina shared some stories about her life as an author and the process of writing a novel.  We thank her for visiting and once again thank the parent council for their support by funding this author visit.

For more info on the author, please check the link below.

http://www.marinacohen.com/

Black History Month Art Exhibit at LKS



Congratulations to Ms. Walker and the students of 5A for their wonderful projects and art pieces focusing on Black History.  This was in celebration of Black History Month.  Below you will see some sample projects that students created on Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Jr. and Jackie Robinson.  Super Work!



Grade 6 MAD SCIENCE Presentation

The Grade 6 students today had a visiting Scientist working with them on some amazing Science activities.  The students learned about meteorites, glacial properties and space travel.  Looked like it was a very interesting day!  A big thank you to Ms. Chandra for organizing this event and the LKS Parent Council for supporting this program.

Freeze out Bullying at LKS - Freestyle Soccer Presentation

A very big THANK YOU to the LKS Parent Council for their support in bringing the Freeze out Bullying program to LKS today.   This Anti-Bullying presentation sent a clear message to the students in Grades 1 - 8.  Through a Freestyle Soccer Presentation, students were engaged and the key messages delivered to the students were to Stand Up to a bully and to Take Control of your actions.  Students had a great deal of fun and were amazed by the Soccer tricks.  The personal stories shared by the presenters also highlighted the importance of empathy and celebrating uniqueness.

For more information on the program, feel free to check out the link below.

http://www.freestylesoccer.ca/


Here are some pictures from the presentation!


                The Freestyle performers gave LKS a poster.  Over the next few weeks,     
                      students will have the opportunity to win some prizes.




The performers!




LKS staff having some Soccer fun!

  

Some students learning some cool soccer tricks.



TDSB Earth Hour on March 30!

On March 30, the TDSB will celebrate its own Earth Hour from 2 to 3 p.m. at all schools and offices. The official global Earth Hour is on Saturday, March 31 between 8:30 and 9:30 p.m.


Again this year, schools and offices will use as little electricity as possible between 2 and 3 p.m. on Earth Hour Friday. Our Eco Warriors have several exciting activities planned for this event.  Way to go LKS!

Epilepsy Awareness Day - Monday

LKS is supporting Epilepsy Awareness Day on Monday by wearing Purple.  Help us make a difference and support this cause.

Here is a wonderful article from Epilepsy Canada:

http://www.epilepsy.ca/en-CA/Epilepsy-Canada/Spring-2012-mailer-insert.html

March Break

Have a wonderful March Break! There will be no school March 12 - 16.

Math Contest at LKS

This month over 70 LKS students took part in this year’s grade 6, 7 and 8 Math League contests.
The contest this year was very challenging so a very big congratulations to all participants for taking on the challenge to write the contest.  A very big THANK YOU also to Mrs. Heath for her hard work organizing this event at LKS. 

This year’s contest winners are as follows:

Grade 6
1st place - Rebecca
2nd place – Lyle
3rd place – Alison

Grade 7
1st place – Scott
2nd place – Lauren and Jackson (tie)
3rd place – Turner
Grade 8
1st place – Eric
2nd place – Evan
3rd place – Zachary

LKS Hockey!

LKS's 6B team beat Huron PS in a great game today in the TDESAA City Finals at Varsity Arena.  The final score was 3 - 1.  Congratulations to all the players on a great game and a big thank you to all the parents for their continued support!

Parklawn JMS - Bullying Workshop

On March 1st, Parklawn JMS is hosting a Bullying Prevention Workshop from 7 - 9 pm, led by professionals from Branching Out, a service organization that provides therapy for youth and their families.

You will learn:


The difference between conflict and bullying

The 5 most common types of bullying

Family dynamics that facilitate or prevent bullying

How to advocate for your child if s/he is being bullied


There is no charge, but please register by calling the school (416-394-7120).

Congratulations Phoebe - LKS Spelling Bee Champion

On Saturday, Phoebe represented LKS at the Canspell Regional Spelling Bee Championships.  With over 100 Schools participating, Phoebe was competing against the top 58 spellers in this Region.  She made it all the way to the fourth round and was eliminated with just a few rounds left in the competition.  Congratulations Phoebe!!

January Update

What an exciting month.  LKS is as busy as ever. 

In athletics, hockey, volleyball and basketball are in full swing.  Best of luck to all our teams! Please check out the sports blog run by Mr. Bracht for more information.

Our music department and teachers are continuing with Annie rehearsals.  If you can help with props for the play, an email was sent our by the grade reps.  Please contact the school.

Eco Warriors continue to promote litterless lunches, Walking Wednesdays, and proper recycling.  Several students just went to an Eco-Conference with Ms. Moser and participated in many exciting discussions and presentations.

Ms. Forte, our Guidance counsellor, was also at a conference this month with some of our Senior students.  The Dare to Dream Conference aims to inspire students to succeed in all aspect of their lives.  The students had a great day!

The character trait for January was Teamwork.  The school safety committee did a wonderful job promoting Teamwork throughout the school with morning announcements and a play at our sharing assemblies.  Well Done!

Kindergarten registration is also upon us.  Next week, the school will be very busy with new families to our school community coming to register their children.  We welcome all registrants!

Happy February everyone :)

Lambton-Kingsway Spelling Bee

What a way to start the New Year!

Today, 24 LKS students from Grades 4 - 8 took part in the LKS Spelling Bee.  It was a truly exciting event lasting 18 rounds.  In the end, Phoebe in Grade 7 was declared the School Spelling Bee Champion.  Congratulations to Phoebe and all the top spellers!

Phoebe will have an opportunity to go on and represent LKS at the Regional Finals next month. 
Good Luck!