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Great Lakes PS 1
A Message from the Administration Team
On January 30th Great Lakes staff and students participated in the Canada wide Bell Letrsquos Talk campaign in support of mental health Classes held discussions about how to put an end to the stigma surrounding mental illness and how to support those in need Well done Great Lakes
Report cards will be coming home on February 7th noting strengths for our students and next steps for improvement of skills Students are to be commended for their efforts during Term One and are encouraged to do their best in Term Two A final ldquoshout outrdquo of thanks to our teaching staff for their dedication to our studentsrsquo learning each day
We continue our Walk to School Wednesdayto get out and walk and enjoy the healthy benefits
Follow us on Twitter 1GreatLakes2013
School SuccessFebruary is Black History Month Throughout the Peel Board students staff and parents from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the understanding of the many contributions made by Black Canadians At Great Lakes on Wednesday February 20th we will host BAM ndash Black African Museum Exhibition Students will learn about AfricansCanadians and Diaspora peoplersquos history contributions and achievements in STEM and encourage Canadian children youth and young people to become the next great Canadian Inventors Innovators Pioneers and Trailblazers of tomorrowhost a student led assembly to honour Black History month on Monday February 25th at 925 am All families are welcome to attend
Great Lakes PS
Home of the Grizz
Math Tips Identify numbers in everyday life Count cards houses road signs etc on
long drives Measure the distance from the front door
to your childrsquos bedroom Add the kilometers on road signs Identify the geometrical shapes in the
objects in your house and neighbourhood Sort objects (eg socks cutlery money)
beginning with one attribute (eg colour size) then move to more than one attribute
285 Great Lakes Drive Brampton ON L6R 2R8 Phone 9057938632 Fax 9057931860Principal ndash Mrs Vokey Vice-Principals ndash Mrs Slimati amp Mrs Raybould Office Manager ndash Mrs Mihkelson
Trustee ndash Ms Balbir Sohi Superintendent ndash Mr Michael Logue
FEBRUARY 2019 EDITION
Great Lakes PS 2
Whats Happening At Great LakesBullying Tips
Tell the person how you feel Use kind words to tell himher to stop Use only words Walk away from the person and ignore himher Tell an adult about the situation and get help
Winter Bus SafetyThe following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you
in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses
need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice
Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces
Dress properlymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm
Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus
Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
On very rare occasions buses are late because of weather conditions or mechanical problems Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus
Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult
Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is
Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
February Special Events o Winter Walk Day ndash Wednesday February 6th o Report Cards Go Home ndash Thursday February 7th o PD Day (No School) ndash Friday February 8th o Family Day (No School) ndash Monday February 18th o Black African Museum Exhibition ndash Wednesday
February 20th o School Council Meeting - Thursday February 21st
at 630 pm in the Staff Roomo Black History Assembly is scheduled for
February 25th at 925 am in the gym All are welcome to attend
oDrive Cautiously in Parking Lot amp
School ZoneIf you are dropping your child off in the morning please obey all the rules of the Kiss N Ride lane Children are required to always exit from the side facing the curb and never from the side facing the lane for traffic Please do not park your vehicles in the Kiss N Ride lane This slows down the traffic flow Remember these rules are to ensure the safety of our students Thank you for your continued support
Great Lakes PS 3
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Students are working with
Gizmos
Great Lakes PS 4
Students had a great time participating in hands on learning at the Ontario Science Centre
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Great Lakes PS 5
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes PS 2
Whats Happening At Great LakesBullying Tips
Tell the person how you feel Use kind words to tell himher to stop Use only words Walk away from the person and ignore himher Tell an adult about the situation and get help
Winter Bus SafetyThe following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you
in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses
need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice
Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces
Dress properlymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm
Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus
Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
On very rare occasions buses are late because of weather conditions or mechanical problems Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus
Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult
Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is
Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
February Special Events o Winter Walk Day ndash Wednesday February 6th o Report Cards Go Home ndash Thursday February 7th o PD Day (No School) ndash Friday February 8th o Family Day (No School) ndash Monday February 18th o Black African Museum Exhibition ndash Wednesday
February 20th o School Council Meeting - Thursday February 21st
at 630 pm in the Staff Roomo Black History Assembly is scheduled for
February 25th at 925 am in the gym All are welcome to attend
oDrive Cautiously in Parking Lot amp
School ZoneIf you are dropping your child off in the morning please obey all the rules of the Kiss N Ride lane Children are required to always exit from the side facing the curb and never from the side facing the lane for traffic Please do not park your vehicles in the Kiss N Ride lane This slows down the traffic flow Remember these rules are to ensure the safety of our students Thank you for your continued support
Great Lakes PS 3
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Students are working with
Gizmos
Great Lakes PS 4
Students had a great time participating in hands on learning at the Ontario Science Centre
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Great Lakes PS 5
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes PS 3
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Students are working with
Gizmos
Great Lakes PS 4
Students had a great time participating in hands on learning at the Ontario Science Centre
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Great Lakes PS 5
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes PS 4
Students had a great time participating in hands on learning at the Ontario Science Centre
Whatrsquos Happening in Grade 6 at Great Lakes
Great Lakes PS 5
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes PS 5
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes PS 6
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Great Lakes Public School puts the spotlight on Black Heritage
In December 1995 the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month following
a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected
to Parliament the Honourable Jean Augustine
During Black History Month students staff and parents
from across Peel will participate in a number of activities that promote the
understanding of the many contributions made by black Canadians Here is a list of events happening at Great Lakes Public School
Black African Museum Exhibition Wednesday February 20th All Day Gym Black History Assembly Monday February 25th 925 am Gym
Bus
cancellation and closing schools due to bad weatherDuring the winter months we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather
Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be available on Twitter Peelschools Facebook at wwwfacebookcompeelschools wwwpeelschoolsorg and wwwstoprca or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 It is usually also announced on the radio and television stations listed below
Great Lakes PS 7
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
VIRGIN RADIOFM999 BREAKFAST TELEVISION NEWS AM680CFNY FM1021AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM981NEWSTALK1010 AM EZ ROCK FM973 CJBC (FR) AM860FM Z1035 FM931 FM Q107CHIN FM1007AM1540 CBC991 CITYPULSEGLOBAL NEWS CITY NEWS CTVCFRB ndash (Bell Media)
One of the following messages will be announced
Peel District School Board buses are cancelledThis means that schools remain open for students and staff but buses are cancelled Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities Buses will remain cancelled all day All activities that require busing will also be cancelled Permits night school classes child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual
All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closedThis means that all schools and Peel board offices are closed to students and staff All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled including child care night school and permits
All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelledThis means that all activities in schools and Peel board offices are cancelled including continuing education courses and events The buildings will be closed
What if my child does not go to school due to a bus cancellation or inclement weather If your child will be absent as a result of a bus cancellation or you choose to keep your child home due to inclement weather parentsguardians must report the absence using one of the following methods
For elementary K-8 students report it through SafeArrival by calling 1-855-209-6155 or visiting goschoolmessengerca For secondary students call the school office directly
How to report absences when School Messenger is experiencing technical issues
Recently before the Winter break the SafeArrival system provided by School Messenger experienced problems reporting absences through the App and website While School Messenger works diligently to fix any technical issues parentsguardians are reminded that absences can always be reported by calling the School Messenger toll-free number 1-855-209-6155 even when the App and website are inaccessible
Peel Learning Foundation aims to create hopeful tomorrows for Peel board students
Great Lakes PS 8
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Peel Learning Foundation a community-based charitable organization will officially introduce itself to the Peel community at a launch event on Friday Feb 22 2019 In partnership with the Peel District School Board the foundation was created to enable Peel board students to achieve personal excellence by providing resources to help them overcome barriers
In its first year the foundation will support Peel board students through Student Emergency Needs program
Depending on the need the foundation will support individual students with food and clothing medical supplies eyeglasses and transportation costs or where there is an emergency situation that requires a compassionate response
Student Backpack programThe foundation will provide backpacks filled with school supplies that students need to fully participate in regular classroom work The backpacks will be provided to students in need in a respectful and confidential manner They are tailored for students in kindergarten to grade 3 grades 4 to 8 and grades 9 to 12
A launch event will be held at the HJA Brown Education Centre located at 5650 Hurontario St in Mississauga from 9 to 10 am on Feb 22 The foundationrsquos inaugural board of directors will be present as well as other guests The event includes a performance by Mayfield Secondary School students and information booths To RSVP for the launch event visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorglaunch
Individuals or organizations who are interested in learning more about and supporting the foundation can visit wwwPeelLearningFoundationorg They can also follow the foundation on Twitter and Facebook and use the hashtag CreateHope to join the conversation
Your relationship with your child will evolve throughout the various stages of their development Having a strong relationship and bond with your child is key to their social and emotional health and well-being Focusing on your relationship with your child throughout the years can help your child face times of stress and those inevitable challenging times during their lives With Valentinersquos Day on February 14th and Family Day on the 18th February is a great time to reflect on ways to bond with your child Here are some tips that can help your family stay connected over time
Family Meals Catching up during family dinners is a great way to keep connected During the early years family
meals may be a chance to share ldquoone happy thing about your dayrdquo however as your child grows it is a chance to hear about their accomplishments and their struggles It is a great time to disconnect from technology and give them your undivided attention
Family Rituals and RoutinesFamily traditions routines and rituals can be helpful in ensuring that quality family time will happen For example you may want to consider having a family movie night or a game night Family traditions and rituals are a way to have consistent quality time where there is mutual enjoyment and there is a shared sense of belonging
Great Lakes PS 9
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Family OutingsSetting some time for outings could be another great way to enjoy your child Outings donrsquot need to be expensive A family walk in the trails or a bike ride to your familyrsquos favourite coffee shop or a drive to a new ice cream shop are all great outings that can continue over the years
Individual TimeSpending one on one quality time with your child will keep you connected and in the loop Individual date nights with your child will make your young one feel special and they will appreciate your undivided attention As they get older it is a good way for your child to share their feelings about various topics and what is happening in their social life especially in the teen years
Celebrating your Childrsquos Achievements Your child will feel appreciated and important when their achievements are acknowledged and their hobbies are supported This can be as simple as a pat on the back or a verbal expression of their hard work and dedication Watching them play a sport or play a musical instrument at a school concert can make your child feel valued and cared for at any age
Annual Report to the Community Peel boardrsquos 2017-18 Annual Report captures our commitment to WeInspire
At the Peel District School Board our mission is to inspire success confidence and hope in each student ndash each and every day This years Annual Report captures the incredible work that took place in Peel schools and work sites during the 2017-18 school year and that continues to happen every day
View the annual report at wwwpeelschoolsorgaboutusannualreport
Register today for Adult ESL or LINC classes
Do you know an adult that is interested in improving their English language skills for work study or daily life
Through the Continuing amp Adult Education department the Peel District School Board offers a wide variety of English language classes that help parents experience success in Canadian English in both listeningspeaking and readingwriting Courses are designed for a range of basic intermediate and advanced English (Levels 1 to 7) as well as the more experienced learner needing to prepare for an IELTS exam
Winter courses begin February 4 2019
All learners that complete a session will earn a certificate of learning from the Peel District School Board
Classes operate from six locations in Brampton and Mississauga with three specially designed adult centres at Bramalea - Adult Education Centre at Bramalea Secondary School- 510 Balmoral Drive Brampton - Adult Education Centre - 300 - 7700 Hurontario Street Mississauga - Adult Education Centre - 100 Elm Drive West Room 117
To learn more or to register call 905-270-6000 Course registrations are ongoing till the end of the semester
Also visit wwwpeelschoolsorgadulteducation or follow us on Twitter PDSBLearnESLGreat Lakes PS 10
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Offence Declaration required for returning volunteersParents play an important role in the development and education of their children and in the success of the school community At Great Lakes Public School we welcome and encourage the participation of parents and community members and are grateful for the countless hours our volunteers contribute throughout the school year
To volunteer at our school you must complete a short interview and a criminal record check A criminal record check is required for all school volunteers in Ontario Even if you want to accompany your child on a field trip you need this record check
Once you have completed the process you are on file with the Peel District School Board as being a school volunteer All returning volunteers will receive an Offence Declaration form that must be filled out and returned to the board office each year Completing the Offence Declaration will ensure that you can continue volunteering in the next school year Forms will be mailed home in February
Peel Public Health tips to prevent and beat the flu
During the winter season itrsquos important to take precautions to avoid and help prevent the spread of germs and illnesses such as influenza or ldquothe flurdquo Influenza is a disease that affects the airways and the lungs The flu can spread from person to person and can sometimes cause severe illnesses
Peel Public Health has provided these tips to help reduce the risk of becoming ill or spreading the flu
Get your annual flu shot Itrsquos not too late to get your annual flu shot Visit your physician a walk-in clinic a pharmacy or find another location near you that is offering the free influenza vaccine
Stay home when youre sick If your child develops flu-like signs and symptoms (fever cough sore throat body aches headache chills and fatigue) keep them home from school Contact your health care provider if symptoms are severe
Practise good hygiene Help your child get into the habit of covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the trash after itrsquos used If they donrsquot have a tissue they should cough or sneeze into their sleeve or elbow They should also avoid touching their eyes nose or mouth Germs are spread this way
Wash your hands Encourage your child to wash their hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer especially after they cough or sneeze
There are many locations across Peel where you can get your flu shots Peel flu clinics Family Doctorsrsquo offices Walk-in clinics Pharmacies
For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit wwwpeelregioncaflu
Winter bus safety
The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months
Allow extra time to get to your bus stop Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening Stand away from where the bus stops Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces Dress appropriatelymdashwinter clothing hats and boots will keep you warm Dont throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus Dont slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street
Great Lakes PS 11
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Dont push or shove around the bus Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt
Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late Here are some suggestions
When possible wait with your child for the bus Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult Teach your child how and where to get help Talk to your child about what a safe stranger is Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus
What you need to know about head lice
What is head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp where they lay their eggs They have three stages the egg (nit) the nymph and the adult Head lice do not spread diseases and cannot be spread between animals or pets and humans only through direct contact between people
Head lice spread easily especially where people are in close contact They are common among school-aged children or children attending child care where they spread through direct hair-to-hair contact or directly by sharing things like hats combs hairbrushes or headphones
One of the first signs of head lice is an itchy scalp However children can have head lice for several weeks with no symptoms If you think your child has head lice check their hair for nits right away then again after one week and after two weeks
What to do if your child has lice
If you discover your child has lice notify the school immediately so that classmates can be checked Parents must keep their child at home until they have been treated for lice and are nit-free Students may only return to school if they are ldquonit-freerdquo and will be checked by a school administrator before being re-admitted to class If your child has live lice ensure they avoid head-to-head contact with other children until the lice are gone Children should not share combs hairbrushes caps hats or hair ornaments You should also check all family members for head lice Be sensitive to your childrsquos feelings and let them know that having head lice does not mean they are not clean
Head lice can be treated with the following approved insecticides pyrethrin (found in RampC Shampoo + Conditioner) permethrin (Nix Creme Rinse or Kwellada-P Creme Rinse) lindane (Hexit Shampoo or PMS-Lindane Shampoo)
Although head lice does not pose a significant health risk it is highly contagious and very uncomfortable for children therefore schools take precautions to prevent the spread Your cooperation in controlling the spread of lice by keeping your child at home until they have been treated and are nit-free is much appreciated
Help your family stay warm this winter
Peel Public Health recommends the following cold weather guidelines for preventing cold-weather injuries
1 Reduce amount of time children (grade 8 and under) spend outdoors when the temperature is ndash20 degrees Celsius or colder with or without the wind chill
Great Lakes PS 12
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
2 Keep children indoors when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder with or without wind chill Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold Parents should consult their physician (Source Environment Canada)
3 Allow indoor breaks if children say they are feeling cold or during extreme temperatures
4 Ensure children are dressed warmly covering exposed skin insulated boots winter weight coats mittens hats neck warmers
5 Change wet clothing or footwear immediately
6 Although these conditions are unlikely to occur during the school day ensure that all staff are able to recognize and treat symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia Given plenty of warm fluids to prevent dehydration
7 When children are outside be watchful for shivering or signs of numbness in faces ears hands or feet
8 Educate children in dealing with cold weather drinking plenty of fluids dressing warmly and recognizing signs of cold injury
Great Lakes PS 13
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
Celebrating Faith and Culture February 2019
DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE
February Buxwlaks amp Bear Moon Aboriginal SpiritualityFebruary 1 or 2 Imbolc WiccaFebruary 3 Setsubun-sai ShintoFebruary 5 Lunar New YearMaitreya
Bodhisattvarsquos BirthdayBuddhism
February 7 to 25 month of Mulk BahaacutersquoiacuteFebruary 9 Vasant Panchami HinduismFebruary 15 National Flag Day CanadaFebruary 18 Family Day OntarioFebruary 19 Lantern FestivalMagha Puja BuddhismFebruary 26 to March 1 Intercalary Days Bahaacuteiacute
Celebrating Faith and Culture BackgrounderFebruary 2019
The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world To commemorate this diversity the board recognises special faith and culture days of our communities February 2019 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember________________________________________________________
February - Buxwlaks and Bear Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality
Buxwlaks is celebrated by Nisgaa people of the Nass Valley in Northwest British Columbia It is the season of blowing needles of the evergreens The wind shakes loose the foliage from frozen trees and heralds the approach of new growth and the New Year
The second moon of Creation is called the Bear Moon by the Ojibwe people This month the stories related to the spirituality and cultures of the Six nations are retold in the communities
February 1 or 2 - Imbolc in Wicca
Imbolc is the second major Sabbat in Wicca It celebrates the suns increasing power that will bring the start of spring Imbolc is also called Imbolg Candlemas Brigantia the Feast of the Waxing Light and Oimelc Originating as one of the Celtic fire festivals it is celebrated with the lighting of candles It is a time of reflection about potential and new beginnings
There are eight Wiccan Sabbats spaced about 45 days apart during the year Four of these are minor Sabbatsmdashtwo equinoxes and two solstices There are also four major Sabbats occurring roughly midway between the minor Sabbats
Great Lakes PS 14
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
February 3 - Setsubun-sai in Shinto
This popular family New Years festival commonly known as the bean-throwing festival marks the end of winter and the eve of the first day of spring according to the old lunar calendar The problems and evils of the winter are chased away as family members participate in a ritual called mame-makemdashthrowing beans into each room of the house and then through the outer doors with shouts of ldquoOni wa soto Fuku wa uchirdquo Roughly translated this means ldquoGo out bad luck come in good luckrdquo
On Setsubun many families hang a hiiragi over their doorway This is a charm made of a piece of holly and a small dried fish tied together The celebrants eat toasted soybeans They eat as many beans as their own age plus one more The extra bean stands for the start of the New Year
The next day is considered the first day of spring in Japan
February 5 - Lunar New YearMaitreya Bodhisattvarsquos Birthday in Buddhism
Followers of Mahayana Buddhist tradition from Tibet China Vietnam Japan Korea and other parts of the world celebrate their New Year after the new (dark) moon for the year 4717 - the Year of the Pig They visit the local temple or monastery in the morning In the afternoon they distribute food to the poor The day will conclude with evening chanting of the Buddhas teachings and meditation
New Years celebrations vary throughout East Asia
New Year is one of the traditional and most important Chinese holidays It is celebrated on the first day of the first month of the Chinese calendar which is usually the day on which the second new moon after the winter solstice occurs The Chinese New Year is celebrated over 15 days The Chinese greeting is Kung Hei Fat Choi meaning Congratulations and be prosperous Traditionally red packets (hong bao lai see ) are passed out on New Years Eve and the New Year is celebrated with firecrackers as well as dragon and lion dances
The Vietnamese New Year is celebrated for seven days The greeting is Tet Giap Than meaning Best Wishes A special ceremony called Le Tru Tich is held at midnight (Giao Thua) on New Years Eve The ritual involves firecrackers and gongs and other festive items that make loud noises to usher out the old and welcome the new Family members exchange gifts and pay homage to the Kitchen God They also visit local temples to pray for prosperity and good health
Vietnamese families plant a New Years tree called Cay Neu in front of their homes A bamboo pole is often used as a Cay Neu
The Korean New Years greeting is Say hay boke-mahn he pah du say oh meaning Many New Years blessings to you
Tibetan Buddhists celebrate Losar or New Years Day for the year 2144 in the Tibetan calendar The last two days of the old year are called Gutor and are spent preparing for the New Year The custom that day is to make special noodles called guthuk Everyone exchanges the traditional greeting Tashi delek
Great Lakes PS 15
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
February 7 to 25 - month of Mulk in Bahaacutersquoiacute
In the Bahaacutersquoiacute calendar there are 19 months of 19 days each Each month represents an attribute of God Mulk signifying dominion is the eighteenth month
The Bahaacutersquoiacute day starts and ends at sunset The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day
February 9 - Vasant Panchami in Hinduism
A North Indian celebration Vasant Panchami is celebrated in honour of Saraswati the Goddess of Learning and Lakshmi the Goddess of Wealth
The fifth day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month of Magh is Vasanta Panchami and the first day of spring Hindus celebrate this festival by holding ceremonies to venerate Saraswati goddess of wisdom and knowledge People dress in yellow and get together with their families Marigold flowers are featured in religious services Symbolically the education of children in their first year begins on this day
February 15 - National Flag Day in Canada
This day celebrates the anniversary of the first raising of the Flag of Canada in 1965 at Parliament Hill in Ottawa The national flag was approved by the House of Commons on Dec 15 1964 the Senate on Dec 17 1964 and was first flown on Parliament Hill on Feb 15 1965
February 18 - Family Day in Ontario
The third Monday of February is recognized as Family Day in Ontario This statutory holiday was established by Premier Dalton McGuinty on October 11 2007 On this holiday families are encouraged to spend time together
February 19 ndash Lantern FestivalMagha Puja in Buddhism
Magha Puja is celebrated on the full moon day of the third month in the Buddhist calendar The festival commemorates the day on which Buddha recited the Ovadha Patimokkha (the Fundamental Teaching) to his disciples The day is also celebrated for the Fourfold Assembly - gathering of 1250 Arahantas (accomplished holy ones) at Veruvana Temple in Rajgarh city (India) of their own accord without notification on the full moon day and all 1250 disciples being ordained by Buddha himself Adherents renew their dedication to Dhamma (teachings of Buddha) practice on this day
Lantern festival is celebrated mid-autumn on the full moon night of the eighth month of the lunar calendar by Chinese Vietnamese Taiwanese and Timorese communities This festival celebrates the summer harvest and is a time for rejoicing Brightly coloured lanterns are hung in front of homes and parades are
Great Lakes PS 16
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
held in towns and villages In Vietnam this festival is also called Childrens Festival Families gather together to share meals and moon cakes
February 26 to March 1 - Intercalary Days in Bahaacuteiacute
For Bahaacuteiacute s the Intercalary Days are days of feasting hospitality rejoicing charity and giving of presents as well as ministering to the poor and ill as they prepare for the annual Fast The Intercalary Days are also used to complete the 365 days solar year as the 19 month Bahaacuteiacute calendar falls short
Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school
If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days dont forget to offer them best wishes If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions
- make sure the dates are included on your school calendar- have your principal announce the day over the PA system - hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days- include a mention of these days in your school newsletter- include information on your school website- display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days- invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students- have class discussions about these days- ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate
this day at home Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students- have parents offer a cultural session
Questions If you would like any more information on how to celebrate these days please call Ashley Bigda Community Relations Officer at 905-890-1010 ext 2573 or e-mail her AshleyBigdapeelsbcom
Great Lakes PS 17
