All Saints Blog Week of September 12th, 2016

Our First Week of School!

It was a very busy and exciting first week of school these past few days.  We began the week by welcoming our grade 7 students to our opening day assembly and then ushering them to their first period class.  Our grade 8-12 students all found classes and reacquainted themselves with the school.  Our student council reps were also instrumental in setting the tone at our grade level assemblies.  They encouraged our student body to get involved and have fun this year.  

Finally on Friday we were able to process all of our students and staff through our school photos.  We use the pictures for student identification cards and our yearbook, and we hope families took the opportunity to order packages as well.

Grade Level Assemblies

Our administration, Student services staff and student council had the opportunity to meet with all students by grade this week.  It was an important chance to share direction and expectations with our students.  I explained the significance of student voice and responsibility associated with our intention of involving students in decisions.  We spoke of the evolving process of learning as well.

Our Vice-Principals reviewed dress code, bus safety and expectations, attendance procedures, lunch hour guidelines and the many opportunities available across all grade levels at All Saints.  Our Student Services Counsellors explained the extensive support options for students who may be looking for information or who may require guidance during the year.  

Learning with Mr. Kelly

As part of our grade level assemblies, I encouraged students to recognize the adapting notion of “learning” as it pertains to our school life.  Learning is less about “giving knowledge” and more a collaborative process of creativity, problem solving and imagination.  To highlight this point, I encouraged students to provide me with a learning opportunity.  I indicated that I would buy lunch for any student who wanted to take some time and teach me about a talent, an interest, a hobby, or passion that they have.  Students are welcome to email the school: AllSaints.High@ocsb.ca to set up an appointment.  This week I am learning about Ringette and how to play the violin!

This Coming Week

On Thursday, September 15th, we will be running our Grade 9 Amazing Race.  This is an orientation session for our new “high school” students, allowing them to explore the new opportunities outside the senior elementary panel.  Students will rotate through information sessions and activities,  allowing them to become more comfortable with the resources in high school.

On Friday of this week we will run our Celebrating 7 orientation program for our grade 7 students.  This is a further opportunity to make our newest students feel comfortable at All Saints, while providing them with the resources to be successful in their first year.

All Saints Catholic School Council

The first general meeting of the All Saints School Council will take place on Monday, September 26th at 7:00pm in the school learning commons (library).  We hope to see many new parents at our meeting at the end of the month.  If you are interested in running for a position on the council, you may review the information required in the following forms and send the information required in an email to All Saints High School (AllSaints.High@ocsb.ca)

School Council Parent Nomination Form

School Council Parent Self-Nomination Form

Reminders:

A verification sheet was sent home with each student last Tuesday - it needs to be carefully checked over and signed by parents and returned immediately.  This is vital for collecting parent/guardian contact information.

If your child has asthma, please note the Ministry requires you to complete a medical form for your child.  Please e-mail the school at AllSaints.High@ocsb.ca to obtain this form as it cannot be attached to this message.  

Parents are asked to create an on-line payment account for each of their children at All Saints.  The option to use credit cards is now available at https://ocsb.schoolcashonline.com/   You will get a receipt for all payments made.  The student fee ($30 per student with a maximum of $60 per family) is due on the first day and may be paid online. If you have two or more students you just choose one child at a time and choose the option for (first, second, third...child).  

Communications:

Check out our blog – allsaintschs.blogspot.ca and our twitter @AllSaintsCHS (Mr. Kelly’s - @seankellyottawa) as well as our website ash.ocsb.ca for all that is happening at All Saints!

Coming Up:

September 22nd: 4:30 to 6:30 - Meet the Staff BBQ (details to follow)

Monday, September 26th: All Saints School Council meeting (7:00 Learning Commons)