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Dear Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ Families,Ìý

With the first big snowfall this week we know December is upon us and winter is in full swing.Ìý Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ schools and workplaces are filled with energy as students, staff and families come together in many ways, taking part in rich and diverse learning opportunities, including performances, community events, and charitable activities.

This month includes many important observances. On December 3, we recognized International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and our ongoing commitment to recognizing and eliminating barriers to create more inclusive, accessible learning conditions for people with diverse abilities. Learn about our work in this area.

Today is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, when we remember the lives of 14 young women who were killed at Polytechnique Montréal, and all those who have experienced, or continue to experience, gender-based violence.

Next week, International Human Rights Day is on December 10. While global events are troubling and concerning to many members of our wider Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ community, we reaffirm our commitment to valuing the inherent dignity and worth of everyone by embedding principles of human rights in all that we do as an organization. We remain committed to building a welcoming working and learning environment where human rights principles continue to anchor our approach to diversity, equity and inclusion.ÌýÌý

We are fortunate to have a rich diversity of cultures and backgrounds in our Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ community, and the opportunity to learn about and share each other’s celebrations and traditions. To those looking forward to celebrating Winter Solstice, Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa in the coming weeks – we wish you all joyful celebrations! Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ’s is a great resource to learn more about these days of significance and others.

While many may be feeling the excitement of the holiday season, I also want to acknowledge that it can be a stressful or difficult time of year for a variety of reasons. Please remember that Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ staff are available to support, and we have a number of mental health and well-being resources accessible to students and families on our board website.Ìý Ìý

Wishing everyone an enjoyable and restful weekend.

Sincerely,

Rita Russo
Director of Education

Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ NEWS

High School Grade 8 Information NightsÌý

Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ secondary schools are hosting information sessions for parents, caregivers and students between November and January. Grade 8 families can learn about programs, courses and the many exciting opportunities that are available! For event details, including a list of dates and times, students and families can follow @kprschools on Instagram and Facebook, or visit the board website for event dates and times.