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Family Update - April 16th

Dear Families,A huge congratulations to all the actors, tech crew, set and costume designers, hair and make up artists, who were involved in The Dragon Tale! What an amazing show! We are so proud of everyone's efforts to make this happen. A special shoutout to Ms. Harding for her work as director and playright. Go Hawks Go!Have a great week ahead/bonne semaine,Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Coming up/dates for awareness </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 17 - PA Day (no school for students)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 21 - School (Parent/Guardian) Advisory Council meeting 6pm; all are welcome </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 23 - May lunch orders are due</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 23 - Ms Pond/Ms Conner and Mr Paul's class to Gould Lake</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 24 - Milkshake day</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 27 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 30 - Subway lunches</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 1 - Mme Phillips' Cafe </li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 4 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 5 - Grade 8 Grad Photo Retake Day</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 6 - LCVI Road Race </li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 6 - Dental Screening for JK and SK</li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 7 - Dental Screening for Grades 2 and 7</li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 7 - Subway lunches</li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 8 - Milkshake Day</li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 11 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="17" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 14 - Subway lunches</li><li value="18" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 18 - Victoria Day Holiday (no school)</li><li value="19" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 20 - Grade7 Immunizations</li><li value="20" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 20 - Kindergarten Open House for 26/27 JK Registrations</li><li value="21" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 21 - June lunch orders due</li><li value="22" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 21 - Mme Phillips', Ms Bly's, Ms Vogelzang's, Mr Palmer's, Ms Conner's/Pond's classes to Queen's U Sports Day</li><li value="23" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 22 - Milkshake Day</li><li value="24" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 25 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="25" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 25 to 27 - Grade 3 EQAO testing</li><li value="26" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 28 - Regional Track & Field (qualifiers from grades 3 to 8)</li><li value="27" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 28 - Subway lunches</li><li value="28" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">May 29 - PA Day (no school for students)</li><li value="29" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">June 2 to 4 - Grade 6 EQAO testing </li><li value="30" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">June 5 - Fun Fair</li></ul> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2">Dragon Tale Update</h2> Wow. What a show! We had just over 100 Harrowsmith students involved in this play, from our actors to our many crews: artistic, tech, backstage, costumes, hair and make-up, and publicity. Thanks to everyone’s hard work, dedication, and talent, the performances came together like magic.I couldn’t be more proud of these students. It was such a joy to see their confidence grow and to watch them celebrate their accomplishments together.Thank you to our families and staff for your incredible support. We truly couldn’t have done it without you. We hope you enjoyed the show as much as we loved bringing it to life!Although the dragon may now be resting, the memories will last! – Danielle Harding <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: center;"> May Subway & Gino order deadline is April 23rd. Order through <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">School Day</a></h2> <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">COMMUNITY EVENTS</h2> <img src="/images/d3760176-1bab-4707-8131-caaee17fd3e1" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 15 103625" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/bcbdadec-546d-4fd7-8cf2-b769cbccaae8" alt="Screenshot 2026 04 15 103556" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2026 2027 Kindergarten Registration Now Open</h2> Welcome to Kindergarten in Limestone. If your child was born in 2022, now is the time to register your new student to start school this September.Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing and a very exciting time for both you and your student. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams of a teacher and early childhood educator, help us along the way. You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments. <iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> Limestone has an open boundary administrative procedure, [Section 300 – Students AP305 Student Transfers], for student registrations. Limestone welcomes all students, promoting and encouraging families to attend their area school, but we understand that it is best interest of some students to attend an out-of-boundary school and that selecting the right educational setting for your new student is a significant decision.Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your new student is a decision influenced by many factors. The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines. In accordance with board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in the school designated within their boundary area, based on their home address.We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will be responsible for organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.Students may be permitted to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application. The board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area. This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out-of-boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out-of-district).   We are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you throughout this process. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.Let us embark on this exciting educational journey together! Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your new student prepare for school.  <img src="/images/f05f0e70-9777-4085-8ef0-aac5affa75ab" alt="LDSB Kindergarten Student Registration Website Graphic" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: start;"> </h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"> </h2>

2026-04-16 17:36:32.058 +0000 UTC

Family Update - April 10th 2026

Dear Families,Please see important dates and coming events below.Have a great week ahead/bonne semaine,Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Coming up/dates for awareness </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 13 - Full dress rehearsal for Dragon Tale</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 13 - Ms Abbott's, Ms Hendry's and Ms Smith's class to Dino Light @ Grand Theatre</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 14 - Grade 8 Graduation Photo Day</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 15 - Dragon Tale performance for students @ 11:45</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 15 - Dragon Tale performance @ 7 p.m.</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 16 - Dragon Tale performance @ 7 p.m.</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 16 - Subway lunches</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 17 - PA Day (no school for students)</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 21 - School (Parent/Guardian) Advisory Council meeting 6pm; all are welcome </li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 23 - May lunch orders are due</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 23 - Ms Pond/Ms Conner and Mr Paul's class to Gould Lake</li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 24 - Milkshake day</li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 27 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 30 - Subway lunches</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Dragon Tale News:</h2> Dragon Tale News:The dragon awakens… our performances are next week!Tickets are on sale now through <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">SchoolDay</a> ($5 each).  Evening Show Dates: (Each performance runs approximately one hour)Wednesday, April 15 at 7:00 p.m.Thursday, April 16 at 7:00 p.m.All details for our cast and crew, including show check-in times, are available on our Dragon Tale website: <a href="https://dragontaleathps.weebly.com" class="editor-link">https://dragontaleathps.weebly.com</a> Dress Rehearsal:Monday, April 13 from 3:30–5:30 p.m.(All cast and crew are required for this important final rehearsal.)Thank you for supporting our incredible cast and crew—we can’t wait to share the show with you!– Danielle Harding <hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">MARK YOUR CALENDARS</h2> May and June lunch orders are open in School Day. May order deadline is April 23rd and June order deadline is May 21. Order through <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">School Day</a><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Dental Screening @ HPS is on May 6th & 7th</h2> <img src="/images/9be53130-1b52-4434-a5ce-9604bc7e31a4" alt="Dental Screening" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2026 2027 Kindergarten Registration Now Open</h2> Welcome to Kindergarten in Limestone. If your child was born in 2022, now is the time to register your new student to start school this September.Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing and a very exciting time for both you and your student. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams of a teacher and early childhood educator, help us along the way. You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments. <iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> Limestone has an open boundary administrative procedure, [Section 300 – Students AP305 Student Transfers], for student registrations. Limestone welcomes all students, promoting and encouraging families to attend their area school, but we understand that it is best interest of some students to attend an out-of-boundary school and that selecting the right educational setting for your new student is a significant decision.Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your new student is a decision influenced by many factors. The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines. In accordance with board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in the school designated within their boundary area, based on their home address.We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will be responsible for organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.Students may be permitted to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application. The board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area. This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out-of-boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out-of-district).   We are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you throughout this process. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.Let us embark on this exciting educational journey together! Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your new student prepare for school.  <img src="/images/f05f0e70-9777-4085-8ef0-aac5affa75ab" alt="LDSB Kindergarten Student Registration Website Graphic" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: start;"> </h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"> </h2>

2026-04-10 18:02:17.916 +0000 UTC

Family Update - April 2nd 2026

Dear Families,Please see important dates and coming events below.Wishing you a great long weekend,Ms. Jurkowski and Ms. Neale on behalf of the HPS Team <hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Coming up/dates for awareness </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 3 - Good Friday (no school)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 6 - Easter Monday (no school)</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 9 - Subway lunches</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 10 - Milkshake day</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 13 - Full dress rehearsal for Dragon Tale</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 13 - Ms Abbott's, Ms Hendry's and Ms Smith's class to Dino Light @ Grand Theatre</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 14 - Grade 8 Graduation Photo Day</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 15 - Dragon Tale performance for students @ 11:30</li><li value="9" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 15 - Dragon Tale performance @ 7 p.m.</li><li value="10" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 16 - Dragon Tale performance @ 7 p.m.</li><li value="11" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 16 - Subway lunches</li><li value="12" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 17 - PA Day (no school for students)</li><li value="13" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 23 - May lunch orders are due</li><li value="14" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 24 - Milkshake day</li><li value="15" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 27 - Gino's lunches</li><li value="16" class="editor-listitem" dir="ltr">April 30 - Subway lunches</li></ul><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr" style="text-align: center;"> </h2><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Dragon Tale News:</h2> The performance dates of April 15 and 16 are fast approaching! Everyone is buzzing with excitement and we can’t wait to share our play with you!Details for all cast and crew members, including show check-in times, are available on our Dragon Tale website: <a href="https://dragontaleathps.weebly.com/costumes.html" class="editor-link">https://dragontaleathps.weebly.com</a> We only have our tech rehearsal and our dress rehearsal left! We will need all cast and crew for these two important practices. Our tech rehearsal will be on Thursday, April 9 from 3:30–5:30 p.m. Our dress rehearsal will be on Monday, April 13 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm.Students should bring an extra snack, as well as a book or quiet activity for downtime.As always, all play information and updates will be posted on the Dragon Tale website. – Danielle Harding<hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">MARK YOUR CALENDARS</h2> May and June lunch orders are open in School Day. May order deadline is April 23rd and June order deadline is May 21. Order through <a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">School Day</a><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><hr></a><a href="about:blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr"><figure><a href="school-day.com" target="_blank" title="Tri Board Handout 2026"><img src="/images/70812863-23cc-456b-882f-0272701d4458" alt="Tri Board Handout 2026" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></a></figure></a> Special Circumstance Application Deadline: June 18, 2026New Special Circumstance applications need to be signed by the school and submitted to Tri-Board by June 18, 2026. These applications will be reviewed and processed for the first day of school, if they can be accommodated based on space available. Applications submitted after June 18 will not be reviewed until after school starts. If they can be accommodated, these special circumstance applications will be processed with a start date of October 5th at the earliest.Special Circumstance students currently receiving transportation do not need to reply. They will remain on the bus unless space is required for eligible students. Schools and families will be contacted before the end of this school year if they have been removed for the upcoming school year. If schools know Special Circumstance students will not require busing in September, they should contact Tri-Board as soon as possible. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"> </h2><hr><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Dental Screening @ HPS is on May 6th & 7th</h2> <img src="/images/9be53130-1b52-4434-a5ce-9604bc7e31a4" alt="Dental Screening" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><hr> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2026 2027 Kindergarten Registration Now Open</h2> Welcome to Kindergarten in Limestone. If your child was born in 2022, now is the time to register your new student to start school this September.Kindergarten is a wonderful new world of learning and growing and a very exciting time for both you and your student. We learn how to read, how to write and we make so many new friends. Our educator teams of a teacher and early childhood educator, help us along the way. You can feel confident your child will be cared for within safe and inclusive environments. <iframe data-lexical-video-id="1e0spaIrnis" width="640" height="480" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/1e0spaIrnis" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="true" title="Youtube video"></iframe> Limestone has an open boundary administrative procedure, [Section 300 – Students AP305 Student Transfers], for student registrations. Limestone welcomes all students, promoting and encouraging families to attend their area school, but we understand that it is best interest of some students to attend an out-of-boundary school and that selecting the right educational setting for your new student is a significant decision.Selecting an out-of-boundary school for your new student is a decision influenced by many factors. The school may be closer to a workplace or near a childcare provider that might be more convenient for drop-off and pick-up routines. In accordance with board policy, by default, students will be enrolled in the school designated within their boundary area, based on their home address.We aim to accommodate family preferences, but please note that out-of-boundary placements are not guaranteed, and families will be responsible for organizing transportation to and from out-of-boundary schools.Students may be permitted to attend any school within the board when there is available student space, upon submission and approval of the proper application. The board will not be held responsible for the provision of any transportation for students outside of their regular school boundary area. This applies to both students within Limestone’s geographic boundaries (out-of-boundary), and students who live outside of those boundaries (out-of-district).   We are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our dedicated staff are here to assist you throughout this process. If you have any questions or need more information, please contact the school.Let us embark on this exciting educational journey together! Discover Kindergarten in Limestone and learn more about our Kindergarten program, resources, and tips to help your new student prepare for school.  <img src="/images/f05f0e70-9777-4085-8ef0-aac5affa75ab" alt="LDSB Kindergarten Student Registration Website Graphic" width="100" height="inherit" style="boxSizing:border-box;borderStyle:none;height:inherit;maxWidth:100%;objectFit:cover;display:inline-block;width:100px"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" style="text-align: start;"> </h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"> </h2>

2026-04-02 18:45:31.455 +0000 UTC

Upcoming Events

View Calendar

Gino's Lunch Day

Jr. Boys' BBall @ HPS 4 p.m. & 4:50 p.m.

EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Elementary School Students (FREE)

Ms Conner's/Pond & Mr Paul's to Gould Lake

May Gino's & Subway Orders Due

Gino's Lunch Day

Jr. Boys' BBall @ HPS 4 p.m. & 4:50 p.m.

EQAO Webinar for Parents and Guardians of Elementary School Students (FREE)

Ms Conner's/Pond & Mr Paul's to Gould Lake

May Gino's & Subway Orders Due

Subway Lunch

Jr Boys' Basketball @ Perth Rd PS

Jr. Boys' Bball Tournament @ Queen's

Graduation Retake Photos for Grade 8s

Dental Screening for grades JK, SK, 2 & 7

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.

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What's New at the District

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Message from the Director

Dear Families,As we enter the spring season and final third of the school year, we are reminded of this season’s promise of renewal and growth, and the key role schools and families have together in supporting student learning and well-being. This time of <a href="about:blank" class="editor-link">year</a> brings many opportunities for learning both inside and outside of the classroom, along with the return of outdoor extracurricular activities. While this week has been very wet and rainy, the warmer temperatures of spring are upon us.  I would like to take this opportunity to share a few important updates with you:P.A. Day – Friday, April 17A reminder to families that tomorrow, Friday, April 17, is a P.A. Day. There will be no classes for students, and we look forward to welcoming them back to school on Monday.Family Engagement and Climate Survey – Coming in MayIn early May, Limestone will be inviting families to take part in a Family Engagement and Climate Survey. The optional survey is anonymous, and families can choose which questions they want to answer.The survey asks about topics such as feeling connected to school, family involvement, safety and bullying, communication, before- and after-school programming, and how technology like artificial intelligence is used in schools.The feedback shared through this survey helps schools and the school board understand what is working well, what could improve, and what may make it harder for some families to take part. Your feedback helps strengthen communication, support student well-being, and improve school experiences for everyone.More information will be shared leading up to the survey being live in early May. <a href="https://youtu.be/kKxSsDtggew" class="editor-link">Families are encouraged to watch a short video</a> featuring Senior Staff and a Parent Involvement Committee (PIC) Co-Chair, who share more about the Family Engagement and Climate Survey and why family voice is so important.Human Rights InformationLaunched in October 2022, the Limestone’s Student Human Rights Reporting Tool provides a way for students, families, caregivers, and staff to report human rights concerns involving LDSB students, including matters related to discrimination and harassment. Reviewing and analyzing this information helps support safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environments and supports the board’s obligations under the Ontario Human Rights Code. The <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/dff6803b-6f2d-4d36-a758-68758a63ceb3/2026-04-09-Student-Human-Rights-Data-Summary-for-2024-2025.pdf" class="editor-link">Student Human Rights Reports – 2024-2025 Summary is now available online</a> and can be accessed by families. Student Census 2025 UpdateIn November 2025, Limestone completed the See Yourself in Limestone: Student Census 2025, a voluntary and confidential survey that helps us better understand students’ identities and school experiences. The findings support planning and decision-making that promotes equity, well being, and student success across Limestone schools. An overview of the Student Census 2025 was presented to the Board of Trustees at last night’s board meeting. Families are encouraged to <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/news/see-yourself-in-limestone-2025-student-census-update-20260416133605" class="editor-link">visit the Limestone District School Board website to review the full Student Census summary</a> and learn more about how student voice is helping shape our work. Mental Health Supports Available for StudentsIn response to tragic events, locally or globally, students may experience a wide range of emotions, including sadness, confusion, worry, or questions about what they may be hearing from others. Students may react in different ways depending on their age, experiences, and how connected they feel to the situation. With time, reassurance, and support from caring adults, these reactions often ease.We encourage families to keep lines of communication open at home, to invite questions, and to offer reassurance as needed. If you have concerns about your student or would like support, please refer to the following resources:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Supporting-your-childs-well-being.pdf" class="editor-link">Supporting Your Child’s Well-being</a></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Caring-for-yourself-while-caring-for-others.pdf" class="editor-link">Caring for yourself while caring for others: A parent’s guide to self-care</a></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://smho-smso.ca/parents-and-caregivers/" class="editor-link">By Your Side</a> (parent/caregiver resources to support mental health learning)</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://maltbycentre.ca/" class="editor-link">Maltby Centre</a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://onestoptalk.ca/" class="editor-link">One Stop Talk</a></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://kidshelpphone.ca/" class="editor-link">Kids Help Phone</a> (Call 1-800-668-6868 or Text “Connect” to 686868)</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://211ontario.ca/" class="editor-link">2-1-1 Ontario</a></li></ul>If you are worried about your student’s immediate safety, or the safety of others, please seek urgent assistance by calling 9-1-1, your local mobile crisis service (613-354-7388), or by going to the nearest emergency department.Thank you for your continued support of Limestone schools and their communities. Your partnership, feedback, and engagement play an important role in strengthening student learning and well-being across Limestone. Limestone staff remain committed to collaborating with families to create safe, inclusive, and supportive school communities where every student can learn and see themselves in Limestone. Krishna BurraDirector of Education

2026-04-16 20:30:19.127 +0000 UTC

Neurovibes Celebrates Neurodiversity April 29, 2026

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2">A vibrant event celebrating neurodiversity with inspiring talks, creative spaces, and an inclusive community experience.</h2>Now entering its third year, Neurovibes is a community event celebrating neurodiversity through engaging talks, creativity, and connection.Attendees can hear from inspiring speakers, explore interactive spaces, and connect with community partners and vendors in a welcoming, inclusive environment. The event is designed to support different sensory needs while bringing people together to learn, share, and celebrate neurodivergent experiences.When: April 29, 2026, 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. (Doors open at 4:00 p.m.)Where: Queen's Biosciences Complex, 116 Barrie Street, Kingston Register now at: <a href="https://bit.ly/Neurovibes2026%20" class="editor-link">bit.ly/Neurovibes2026</a>.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2"> </h2><img src="/images/0d9fba3e-4cf2-480e-973b-7617e4932a7f" alt="Neurovibes 2026 Poster" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-04-16 16:10:44.021 +0000 UTC

Message from the Director - March 5, 2026

Dear Families,With March now underway, and March Break fast approaching, I would like to share a few updates with families:School Year Calendar is ApprovedThe Ministry of Education has approved Limestone’s recommended 2026-2027 school year calendar. The school year will begin with a P.A. Day on September 1, 2026, with the first day of classes for students on September 2, 2026. A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/school-year-calendar" class="editor-link">printable version of the calendar is available on Limestone’s website</a>.Budget SurveyTrustees are seeking feedback on the Limestone District School Board budget planning process for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Families are encouraged to take a few minutes to provide feedback on areas or priority. The survey is anonymous and can be accessed online at <a href="https://bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey" class="editor-link">bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey</a> . The survey closes March 23, 2026.Video: Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO HighlightsAs previously shared, the Ministry of Education released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results in December, and we are pleased to share that Limestone has achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.Limestone’s results are consistent with provincial trends in many areas and show meaningful improvement in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone is performing at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.These results reflect the collective efforts of Limestone educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—supported by the ongoing commitment of students and families across our district. We are extremely proud of the dedication and hard work that contributed to these achievements.We are pleased to share a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link">video update with families on Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</a>. This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link">short video</a> provides an overview of Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan and how it guides our shared work to support student learning and well-being.Through insights from members of the Limestone Senior Team, families will learn about the key priorities shaping our efforts, the thinking behind our actions, and how collaboration, evidence, and reflection help us improve. The video highlights how data, professional learning, and shared leadership work together to move learning forward, while keeping students, belonging, and continuous growth at the centre. It offers a look at how planning connects to practice as we work together toward positive outcomes for all Limestone students.Revisions to Grades 7, 8, and 10 History CurriculumThe Minister of Education has announced updates to the Grades 7, 8, and 10 History curriculum for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.With these updates, in Grades 7, 8, and 10, students will learn about significant contributions of Black individuals and communities to Canada’s foundation as a nation, and the obstacles they faced in the pursuit of building an inclusive and prosperous country. The Grade 10 History course will also have new learning on extreme political and social ideologies, the Holocaust and rising antisemitism, and the Holodomor famine in Ukraine.Learn more about the updated curriculum on the <a href="https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/" class="editor-link">Ministry of Education’s Curriculum and Resources website.</a>Become a Homestay and Host an International Student: A Meaningful Experience for You and Your FamilyEach year, LDSB welcomes more than 120 international students into schools across the district from countries around the world, including Brazil, Italy, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, France, Vietnam, Rwanda, and many others. Hosting an international student is a meaningful way to bring the world into your home while making a positive difference in a young person’s life. Limestone homestay families are carefully matched with students and supported by dedicated Limestone staff throughout the placement, so families are never on their own. Hosting offers opportunities for cultural exchange, the development of lasting relationships, and a monthly stipend to help offset costs. To learn more about how hosting works, the supports in place, and why many local families choose to open their homes, visit <a href="https://internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay" class="editor-link">internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay</a>.Ministry Resources for Reading and MathThere are many resources available to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that make learning both fun and effective for students and families. To explore these tools, visit Limestone’s <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link">Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</a>.Thank you for your continued partnership and support of student learning and well-being across Limestone. We are grateful for the role families play in helping students feel supported, connected, and successful, and we look forward to continuing our work together.Krishna Burra

2026-03-05 21:30:00.475 +0000 UTC

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.