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Family Update - December 5 2025
<p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It's been a frosty week outside this week! We've also seen an increase in illness across the school. Please continue to follow the Public Health guidelines and recommendations below. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Have a great week/bonne semaine,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Coming up/dates for awareness</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><figure><a href="https://harrowsmith.limestone.on.ca/calendar" target="_blank" title="calendar"><img src="/images/8ccef89d-f48c-4476-917d-2eb7e748faf0" alt="calendar" width="119" height="119" style="width:119px;height:119px;display:inline-block;float:right"></a></figure></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Sydenham High School Band at HPS @ 11:30 a.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Gino's lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Extended French Immersion 26/27 - Starts @ 5p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 9th - Basketball workshops for Junior & Intermediate classes </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - January Gino & Subway orders due</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - Winter Milkshake orders due</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 12th - Sparkle Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 15th - Gino's lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 15th - Festive Sweater/Holiday Hair/Holiday Hat Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 16th - Parent Council Meeting (School Advisory Committee) 6pm</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 17th - Welcome Winter Family Event 5-6pm. Foodbank Donations accepted.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 17th - Twin Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 18th - Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 19th - Pajama Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 19th - Milkshake Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 20th to January 4th - Winter Break</span></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Junior & Intermediate Basketball Skills Sessions</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">XYU Basketball coaches will be visiting and offering skill sessions for Junior and Intermediate students on December 9. This is free of charge and information about extended basketball opportunities through this group will follow via email.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lost & Found Table </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you recognize any of these items? Our Lost & Found table is currently overflowing with hoodies, sweaters and coats. We have returned all items that were labelled to their owners but there are still many items to be claimed. </span></p><img src="/images/45eb8d6f-179f-4587-bb4f-aaa250b855da" alt="Lost Found Pictures" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/1639ca91-559d-4391-a946-6e001dfc7276" alt="December Spirit Days" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">NOTE: Student presentations begin at 5 p.m.</strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f38acc05-8e4f-4c44-8726-8be988e880f8" alt="Extended French Immersion" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/7ecd5718-54eb-43d3-a77b-e2f6fd60091d" alt="Illness Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Childhood Illnesses</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LDSB follows the guidelines set out through the Southeast Public Health (formerly known as KFL& A) regarding student illnesses. Please see the information below. For further information please visit the SPH link: </span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/common-childhood-illnesses.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Southeast Public Health Common Childhood Illnesses</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/061f3589-b079-414c-96db-baa3d043d4be" alt="Southeast Health Childhood Illnesses" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p>
2025-12-05 18:45:22.446 +0000 UTC
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Family Update - November 28, 2025
<p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thank you for your continued support of school fundraisers. The poinsettias, MacMillans and book fair were a huge success this week!</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please find below important dates and events at school and in the community.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Have a great week/bonne semaine,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder if you are dropping your child off late or picking them up early, please stop at the office. We ask that you remain in the front foyer during this time. </strong></b></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Coming up/dates for awareness</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><figure><a href="https://harrowsmith.limestone.on.ca/calendar" target="_blank" title="calendar"><img src="/images/8ccef89d-f48c-4476-917d-2eb7e748faf0" alt="calendar" width="119" height="119" style="width:119px;height:119px;display:inline-block;float:right"></a></figure></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 1st - Gino's lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 2nd - Skilled Trades Open House @ Slush Puppie Place (details below)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 4th - Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 5th - Jingle Bell Walk at 12:45 - All are welcome. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 5th - Green & Red Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Sydenham High School Band at HPS @ 11:30 a.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Gino's lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Extended French Immersion 26/27 - Open House @ 5p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - January Gino & Subway orders due</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 11th - Winter Milkshake orders due</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 12th - Sparkle Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 15th - Gino's lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 15th - Festive Sweater/Holiday Hair/Holiday Hat Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 16th - Parent Council Meeting (School Advisory Committee) 6pm</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 17th - Welcome Winter Family Event 5-6pm. Foodbank Donations accepted.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 17th - Twin Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 18th - Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 19th - Pajama Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 19th - Milkshake Day</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 20th to January 4th - Winter Break</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Lost & Found Table </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Do you recognize any of these items? Our Lost & Found table is currently overflowing with hoodies, sweaters and coats. We have returned all items that were labelled to their owners but there are still many items to be claimed. </span></p><img src="/images/45eb8d6f-179f-4587-bb4f-aaa250b855da" alt="Lost Found Pictures" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/1639ca91-559d-4391-a946-6e001dfc7276" alt="December Spirit Days" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><img src="/images/f38acc05-8e4f-4c44-8726-8be988e880f8" alt="Extended French Immersion" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/55542e82-767b-45b7-997a-c5f0677dde1a" alt="Holiday Showcase Poster with Fireplace Mantle" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Murder by the Book - </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">SHS students have been working hard on a hilarious new murder mystery comedy directed by teachers Janice Keene and Tyler Elliott. Please come and join us for this hilarious and heartwarming show! Performances are </span><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 3-5 from 7:00 - 8:30pm in the Drama Room. Tickets are $10.00</strong></b></u><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> and must be purchased via School Day. Seats are limited so act soon! The show is suitable for ages 12 and up and there will not be an intermission. A canteen will be available before the show. </span></p></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Childhood Illnesses</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LDSB follows the guidelines set out through the Southeast Public Health (formerly known as KFL& A) regarding student illnesses. Please see the information below. For further information please visit the SPH link: </span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/common-childhood-illnesses.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Southeast Public Health Common Childhood Illnesses</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/061f3589-b079-414c-96db-baa3d043d4be" alt="Southeast Health Childhood Illnesses" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p>
2025-11-28 20:30:27.158 +0000 UTC
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Family Update - November 21, 2025
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Dear HPS Families,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We're into the last week of November with many events to the look forward to ahead of the holiday break! Please find important dates and events below.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Wishing you all a great week ahead,</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: center;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">A reminder if you are dropping your child off late or picking them up early, please stop at the office. We ask that you remain in the front foyer during this time. </strong></b></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Staffing updates - We welcome Mr. Corrigan who will be in for Mr. Paul from Nov. 17 - Dec. 19th. Ms. Neale will also be on leave during this time. </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Coming up/dates for awareness</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </strong></b></h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><figure><a href="https://harrowsmith.limestone.on.ca/calendar" target="_blank" title="calendar"><img src="/images/8ccef89d-f48c-4476-917d-2eb7e748faf0" alt="calendar" width="119" height="119" style="width:119px;height:119px;display:inline-block;float:right"></a></figure></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 24th - Gino's lunches / Grade 3 Swim to Survive / Ms Harding's & Ms Vogelzang's classes to Gould Lake</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 24th to 28th - Scholastic Bookfair</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">November 27th - Poinsettia Pick Up (3:00 to 5:00) / Subway lunches</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 2nd - Skilled Trades Open House @ Slush Puppie Place (details below)</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 5th - Jingle Bell Walk at 12:45 - All are welcome. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Sydenham High School Band at HPS @ 11:30 a.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 8th - Extended French Immersion 26/27 - Open House @ 5p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">December 17th - Welcome Winter Family Event 5-6pm. Foodbank Donations accepted.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/1639ca91-559d-4391-a946-6e001dfc7276" alt="December Spirit Days" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/f38acc05-8e4f-4c44-8726-8be988e880f8" alt="Extended French Immersion" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Childhood Illnesses</span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The LDSB follows the guidelines set out through the Southeast Public Health (formerly known as KFL& A) regarding student illnesses. Please see the information below. For further information please visit the SPH link: </span><a href="https://www.kflaph.ca/en/health-topics/common-childhood-illnesses.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Southeast Public Health Common Childhood Illnesses</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/061f3589-b079-414c-96db-baa3d043d4be" alt="Southeast Health Childhood Illnesses" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p><hr><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Scholastic Bookfair MacMillian's Fundraiser </strong></b></h2><p class="editor-paragraph"><figure><a href="https://bookfairs.scholastic.ca/bf/harrowsmithschool3" target="_blank" title="Pastel Doodle Kids Book Festival Flyer"><img src="/images/b40b4c43-0beb-4eed-80e6-560cf10cc178" alt="Pastel Doodle Kids Book Festival Flyer" width="351" height="407" style="width:351px;height:407px;display:inline-block;float:left"></a></figure><figure><a href="https://macmillansfundraising.online/store/" title="MacMillians"><img src="/images/a387187b-5812-4010-97dc-2453ad08a8b8" alt="MacMillians" width="357" height="408" style="width:357px;height:408px;display:inline-block;float:right"></a></figure></p></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p><p class="editor-paragraph"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><br></p></p>
2025-11-21 14:12:39.923 +0000 UTC
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Upcoming Events
About Our School
Welcome to Harrowsmith Public School, home of the HAWKS: Honesty, Attitude, Work, Knowledge, and Spirit! Harrowsmith Public School serves students from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 8. Our students come from the rural area located around the village of Harrowsmith. Our boundaries are from Florida Rd in the South, to Boyce Rd/Holleford Rd in the North, to Boundary/Loughborough Rd to the East, and to Boundary Rd to the West. Students are mostly bussed to the school. Some of our French Immersion Grade 7 and 8 students come from further North and West.
Learn MoreWhat's New at the District
View All NewsLimestone’s EQAO Results Improve Across All Categories
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) has achieved its strongest Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) performance in four years, with gains in </strong></b><u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold editor-text-underline" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">every testing category</strong></b></u><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> for the 2024-2025 school year. LDSB’s EQAO results align with provincial outcomes in many areas, while showing notable improvements in others and among specific student groups. Limestone’s 2024-2025 results are at, or above, the provincial average in almost all measures.</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results show an upward trend and momentum across all eight areas of assessment for students in Grades 3, 6, 9, and 10, including those with special education needs, underscoring the Board’s intention of making a positive difference in the lives of every student, in every classroom, in every school. </strong></b><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><br><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">"These results reflect the daily dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program teams, and school leaders,” says Krishna Burra, LDSB Director of Education. “I want to acknowledge the efforts of those who have focused on implementing evidence-informed practices, providing targeted supports, and collaborating across schools to ensure student achievement and success.” </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The elementary school report provides assessments of Reading, Writing, and Mathematics written by students in Grades 3 and 6. The secondary school report provides similar information relating to the Grade 9 Assessment of Mathematics and the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT). </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results at a Glance </span></h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 3 Improvements:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> LDSB students showed a 5% to 8% increase in Reading, Writing, and Math, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math, outperforming provincial averages. Students with special education needs improved by 8% to 9% in these subjects. </span></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 6 Gains:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> Achievement rose in all areas, with 88% meeting Reading standards, 87% in Writing, and 51% in Math, matching or exceeding provincial rates. Students with special education needs made significant advances, especially in Writing with a 22% increase. </span></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grades 9 and 10 Results:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> LDSB’s Grade 9 Math scores were slightly below provincial levels but increased by 5% from the previous year, with students with special education needs performing better than students with similar needs in other jurisdictions. The Grade 10 OSSLT saw 95% participation and 84% success, a 3% rise, with continued improvement among students with special education needs. </span></li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 3 EQAO Results </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 3 student achievement saw a 5% to 8% increase in all subject areas in Limestone, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results, with 75% meeting the provincial standard in Reading, 65% in Writing, and 65% in Math. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results for the province showed a slight increase from the previous year for all Grade 3 subjects and were slightly lower than Limestone across Grade 3 assessment subjects. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This new data shows improvement in all subjects, with Math achievement showing the most significant difference for students in Grade 3. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Of significant note are the gains in achievement in Grade 3 Reading, Writing, and Mathematics made by Limestone students with special education needs – up 9%, 8%, and 9% respectively, compared to the 2023/24 assessment results. </span></p><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 6 EQAO Results </span></h2><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 6 student achievement in Limestone also continues to build momentum with improvements in all subject areas. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In Reading, 88% of students met provincial standard in 2024/25 – an increase of 9% from the 2023/24 assessment and a higher rate than the province for 2024/25. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results in Writing showed an increase of 14% over the previous assessment year, with 87% of students meeting provincial standard, at a higher rate than the province. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In Math, results were equal to the province, with 51% of students meeting the provincial standard, an increase of 11% for Limestone compared to the previous assessment year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Like the Grade 3 assessment results, achievement in all subject areas for students in Grade 6 with special education needs in Limestone has increased, with significant gains in Reading and Writing by 12% and 22%, respectively, since the 2023/24 assessment. This increase in achievement for students in Grade 6 with special education needs is higher than the province by 3% to 10% across all subject areas. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Limestone students and staff have worked hard to achieve these gains across Reading, Writing, and Mathematics, including the strong improvements for students with special education needs,” says Burra. “The momentum we are seeing is the result of consistent, evidence‑informed practice—targeted instruction, early interventions, collaborative professional learning, and a sharp focus on what happens in classrooms every day. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“We are proud of this progress, and we are committed to sustaining it by continuing the practices that work and adjusting where they do not,” he adds. “Our goal remains steady improvement over time, not one‑year spikes, for every student, in every classroom, in every school.” </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Primary Assessment (administered in Grade 3): </span></h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Area of Assessment </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reading </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">75% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">74% </span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Writing </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">65% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">65% </span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">65% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">64% </span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Junior Assessment (administered in Grade 6): </span></h3><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Area of Assessment </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Reading </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">88% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">86% </span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Writing </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">87% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">85% </span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Mathematics </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">51% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">51% </span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grades 9 and 10 EQAO Results </span></h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment: </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Results for Grade 9 Math in Limestone are slightly lower compared to the provincial results. For all participating students in the Grade 9 Math assessment, 55% achieved the provincial standard in Limestone, and 58% achieved the provincial standard provincially. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Limestone’s Grade 9 Math results increased by 5% as compared to last year. Results for students with special education needs achieving the provincial standard are higher than the province at 34% for Limestone, compared to 32% for the province. </span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Mathematics Assessment </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 20px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 321px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 9 Math </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 85px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">55% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 113px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">58% </span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Grade 9 Mathematics continues to be a priority area,” says Steve Hedderson, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Human Resources and Curriculum and Program Services: Math and FSL. “Limestone’s five‑point improvement year‑over‑year shows the work is taking hold. We are deepening supports in Grade 9 Math—explicit instruction, daily practice, and timely interventions—and aligning professional learning so teachers have the tools they need. We are focused on building Math confidence and competency for every student.” </span></p><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test - Administered in Grade 10: </span></h3><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">This year, 95% of first-time eligible students wrote the test in Limestone, compared to 94% of students in the province. With this high participation rate, 84% of all students in Limestone were successful, an increase of 3% compared to the 2023/24 school year. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">OSSLT results for students with special education needs continue to show an improvement for the 2024/25 year, with 65% of Limestone students being successful on the assessment. </span></p><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Grade 10 OSSLT </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">LDSB </strong></b></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Province </strong></b></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Participation Rate </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">95% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">94% </span></p></td></tr><tr style="height: 21px;"><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 282px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Success Rate </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 97px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">84% </span></p></td><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 117px; background-color: transparent; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;"><p class="editor-paragraph" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">85% </span></p></td></tr></tbody></table><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“Strong Grade 10 Literacy outcomes begin with strong participation,” says Stephanie Sartor, LDSB Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Literacy Focus. “With 95% writing and 84% successful, up three points from last year, we are encouraged by the trajectory, including the continued improvement for students with special education needs. Literacy is a shared responsibility across subjects, and we will keep pairing explicit instruction with targeted supports so every learner can demonstrate success.” </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Students in all publicly funded schools in Ontario are required to write provincial assessments, administered by EQAO, a provincial body that tests students’ skills in Literacy in Grades 3, 6, and 10 and Math skills in Grades 3, 6, and 9 in relation to Ontario curriculum expectations. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Successful completion of the Literacy requirement is one of the requirements to earn an Ontario Secondary School Diploma. The EQAO assessments have undergone significant updates, with the newer digital assessments offered entirely online through a digital platform for students over the past four years. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">“The dedication of Limestone educators, educational assistants, program team members, and school leaders will remain foundational to continued efforts moving forward,” says Burra. </span></p>
2025-12-05 19:00:45.215 +0000 UTC
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Education Minister Calandra's Letter to Parents - EQAO and Student Achievement Advisory Body
<p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">The following message by the Honourable Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Education, is for parents and guardians regarding EQAO results and the appointment of a Student Achievement Advisory Body.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Please select the following link to read (PDF): </span><a href="/documents/2a916cd2-b224-4a93-a4b3-b0a57ae98e62/Letter-to-Parents-EQAO-Dec-3-2025.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Letter to Parents and Guardians</span></a></p>
2025-12-03 16:57:22.383 +0000 UTC
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PIC Gathering with Director December 4, 2025
<p class="editor-paragraph"><img src="/images/bff4337c-478a-4c20-a057-a8a6e80ca7cb" alt="Parent Involvement Committee Gathering with Director" width="584" height="730" style="width:584px;height:730px;display:inline-block"></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Join us for a special </span><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/parent-involvement-committee" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Parent Involvement Committee (PIC)</span></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> gathering with Krishna Burra, LDSB Director of Education. </span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Thursday, December 4, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Where:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> In-person or online</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">In-person: </strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">220 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, Ontario</span></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><b><strong class="editor-text-bold" style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Online:</strong></b><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span><a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/dl/launcher/launcher.html?url=%2F_%23%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%3Ameeting_MmJlMGM0YWEtNDQ4NS00YzAxLWJhMmEtNjhjNmM5NDA0ZmRk%40thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%25222807506b-b7b9-4de9-8d10-c7f7c33103a9%2522%257d%26anon%3Dtrue&type=meetup-join&deeplinkId=49721d4d-f239-4e30-a5d3-f2d0a60ce03a&directDl=true&msLaunch=true&enableMobilePage=true&suppressPrompt=true" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Link to Attend</span></a></p><p class="editor-paragraph" dir="ltr"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">We look forward to seeing you there!</span></p>
2025-11-25 16:21:00.653 +0000 UTC
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Land Acknowledgement
The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their culture and celebrate their commitment to this land.