Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools District

Do you have a child from newborn up to 5 yrs? StrongStart registration is now online. While we are not holding in person sessions yet, registering your child allows us to stay connected & keep you up to date on virtual opportunities. https://www.sd68.bc.ca/strongstart-early-learning-centre/

Nanaimo Early Years hosts free virtual Healthy Start Fairs for children up to 6 years old and their families. The first one is Tuesday, January 5 from 10 to 11am. Learn about free resources for your family. Registration is required.

Snuneymuxw First Nation begins a shelter-in-place order for all residents living on-reserve, due to an increasing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases found in the community. This decision will be in place for a minimum of 14 days. These are recent cases and there were no exposures identified in any NLPS schools. During the shelter-in-place, the following will occur: ... Qwam Qwum Stuwixwulh School (QQSS) will be closed to all staff and students. All in-class learning at QQSS is suspended for a minimum of 14 days. All SFN students living on-reserve and attending district schools will continue their education remotely. See more

Have a safe and happy New Year! #2021NewYear #HappyNewYear #NLPSlearns #SuccessForAll #sd68

We are so excited to go to the action packed and completely FREE Virtual Early Years Healthy Start Fair Tuesday, January 5th, 10:00am 11:00am on Zoom! It’s a ...great event for #Nanaimo and area families! There’s something here for everyone, learn about Pregnancy Supports, Public Health Supports, Healthy Eating, Early Learning and Development Supports, Family Resources and much more! The first 100 participants will even receive a $10 grocery gift card! Registration is required. To register please email [email protected] For more information see the poster below and visit www.nanaimoearlyyears.org See you there!

All the best to everyone this Holiday Season! #SuccessForAll #NLPSlearns #sd68 #2020 #2021

Kindergarten to Grade 9 registration is currently on hold for Island ConnectEd (distributed learning). New registrants will be placed on a wait list.

We found #Elf sleeping here last night at NDSS Vice-Principal Stephen Elpph (I mean Epp)

Regional District of Nanaimo hosts special photo contest with several categories including a youth category. Youth could win a $100 gift certificate of your choice. Submit by November 30; vote for your favourite by Dec 4. https://www.getinvolved.rdn.ca/photo-contest

Port of Nanaimo & Nanaimo WorkBC Centre host 3rd annual Port Connect on Tuesday, November 24 from 10am until 2pm. If you are interested in learning about the local marine sector, register today. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/port-connect-2020-tickets-12722

As part of Qwam Qwum Stuwixwulh's broad plan to re-engage the school community, and in alignment with their Love Tuesday initiatives, staff and students worked with a local community member to create an outdoor learning space. Funding for the materials came from a special Community Enhancement Fund, but the labour and love came from staff and students. The Grand Opening included Hotdogs with Hulquminum Language Teacher, Adam Manson, and CYFSW Holly Dupont. Holly said, "A little hard work and a lot of fun made the process amazing, albeit with some unexpected turns. Give kids a vision and a passion project good things happen!"

Do you have a child between 6 & 9 years old? You could receive $1,200 for their post-secondary education! The BC Training & Education Savings Grant is a FREE $1,200 for your child's Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP). https://youtu.be/AC6cma-rIgs

A big shout out to all the custodians keeping our schools clean and safe. Here's a special message for Dawn at Cilaire Elementary. Principal Carie Wood said, "I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude for this incredible person we, at Cilaire, are blessed to have on our team! Dawn is one of the kindest, hard working, selfless people I know. Dawn dressed up and went around to every class spreading a little Christmas spirit."

Looking for a safe, private concert this holiday season? Check out the Wellington Jazz Academy Holiday Showcase 2020. Well done! https://youtu.be/2-lhUv1zHIY

The Board of Education would like your feedback on two draft policies: - Policy Development - Public Participation... Feedback will be received over the next 30 days and can be sent to [email protected]. https://www.sd68.bc.ca//policy-notice-of-motion-2-7-and-2-

Still time to register for the 2nd session of the TRC 57 Speaker Series. If you are unable to join us, a video recording will be available afterwards.

Shared on behalf of Island Health: With COVID-19 cases on the rise, Island Health is asking people across our region to double down on their efforts to help stop the spread of the virus. While COVID-19 is everywhere, the central island region is currently experiencing the highest rate of positive cases on Vancouver Island. As of November 19, there were 76 active cases in the central island, an over 500% increase since November 10. That compares to a 40% increase in active ca...ses in south island, and 55% increase in active cases in north island over the same period. On November 19, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced new orders to slow the spread of COVID-19. By following these orders, residents across Vancouver Island can help protect their families, friends and neighbours. Here’s what we must do: We must limit our social interactions to our immediate household. Those who live alone must limit their social interactions to one or two people in their frequent bubble. The fewer people we see, the less chance of exposure. Masks must be worn in all indoor public settings, including all retail stores and restaurants, except when eating or drinking. Travel should be limited to essential travel only, which includes work within your region, medical appointments and hospital visits. Wash your hands often an easy and effective layer to prevent the spread. Limit time in public places to essential trips for things like groceries and medications. If you’re feeling sick at all, please stay home, self-isolate and visit bc.thrive.health or Island Health’s website to determine your next steps. Thank you for doing your part - everything you do now will make a difference in the days and weeks to come. For more information on COVID-19 case numbers, visit Island Health’s COVID-19 dashboard or the BCCDC COVID-19 data hub. You can find more information on COVID-19 at www.islandhealth.ca/covid19.

Here's a sneak peak at some holiday photos in Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools before the winter break. Wishing you a safe and healthy holiday season. https://youtu.be/LieX5X4pUSQ

An additional COVID-19 exposure at Randerson Ridge has been identified. Potential exposure date is November 12. Island Health is currently contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Ladysmith Secondary has experienced a COVID-19 exposure on November 9-10 and 12-13. Island Health has completed contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Staff and students from Ladysmith Secondary share some of their holiday traditions, favourite things about the holidays and more... https://youtu.be/3VdYSj5zF5g

On their way through Ladysmith this week, Tour de Rock riders stopped in at Ladysmith Intermediate. They received some large donations and visited with childhood cancer survivor, Griffin.

The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with Safer Schools Together, hosts Social Media Awareness, Digital Footprints and Cyberbullying in the age of COVID-19 October 29 from 4 - 5pm. This 60 minute student presentation will focus on lessons and content most applicable to today’s new world of online remote learning. This presentation will cover all things digital, from digital citizenship to fake news and to the growing anxiety of the unknown with the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of the most prominent concerns currently surrounding a student’s use of social networking sites and smartphones will be discussed including suggestions for reporting worrisome behaviors. This training is intended for a student audience (Grades 8-12).

In preparation for #BCElection2020 two district students, Harman from @j_barsby and Onuku from #wellington secondary schools joined Dirk Heydemann in a COVID friendly #HAmobile interview with Nanaimo's three candidates. Sheila Malcolmson NDP https://youtu.be/xUrvJ7R3xUI Lea Versaeval Green Party https://youtu.be/L5f_QH3Jsfo... Kathleen Jones BC Liberal Party https://youtu.be/vepLy5K8RcA

#OrangeShirtDay recognized by @sd68bc Trustees during the special Board meeting held on September 30,2020. #Reconciliation #EveryChildMatters

Randerson Ridge Elementary has experienced a COVID-19 cluster. Potential exposure dates are November 4,5,6,9 and 10. Island Health has completed contact tracing. For everyone’s safety, Island Health suggests to: - Perform daily health checks - Stay home if sick... - Wear a mask when outside your cohort and/or family bubble - Limit activity and social events - Stay close to home Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

At this week’s Regular Board meeting, the Board of Education entered into a 30-day notice of motion period for the following: Delete Policy 2.14 Anti-Vandalism and circulate this Policy removal as a notice of motion for 30 days, utilizing the consultation process as per Board Governance, Section 1, 2.7. The proposed change is fully explained in the following document: https://www.sd68.bc.ca//action-sheet-policy-2-14-anti-vand... Feedback will be welcome until January 16 by emailing [email protected]

Families who have children up to six years in age are invited to check out the free virtual Healthy Start Fair (Oct 19).

Director of Instruction, Indigenous Education Ted Cadwallader shares powerful message to recognize the past, the present and the future for our children on Orange Shirt Day 2020.

Sounds like a fun project during the #HolidaySeason

Everybody Deserves a Smile initiative was a huge success at Fairview Community School. 500 envelopes filled with love will be given out to homeless people in Nanaimo this Holiday Season! https://youtu.be/SmHv6W9W4ak

Bayview Elementary begins Orange Shirt Day with a socially distanced staff photo and school-wide virtual territory acknowledgement. Students and staff were blessed with a Stzuminus Mustimuxw song, and outdoor gatherings with Elder Greg Charleson (Quuiatsapulth) and son, Carlin. Students made bracelets; messages of love, acceptance and kindness; teachers shared meaningful stories and conversations.

The district was just informed there was an unconfirmed cougar sighting on Harewood Mines & 7th Street last night

#OrangeShirtDay was recognized by the District Administration Centre during a social distance walk at lunch. Staff were supporting the Orange Shirt Day campaign to keep the discussion going and raise awareness about Indian Residential Schools and its continued impact on communities.

This year, students from Cedar Secondary showcase their Spirit Wear project. The project is about showing pride for your school through clothing. The school's PAC contributed to the purchase of a new vinyl cutter and the students had full control of the outcome. Thanks to students Abby, Maria, Julia and Marissa and teachers Kirklan Lum and Rory Peffers for making this happen. And a special recognition to Abby and Maria for creating the new logo design for the Cedar Spartans. Even Superintendent Saywell was honoured with his very own sweatshirt.

StrongStart Centres go virtual for 2020-2021! Currently schools are in Stage 2. In this stage, schools are limiting visitors to the school and therefore the physical doors of the StrongStart Centres are not open to the public at this time. StrongStart educators are excited to share that they have taken the first steps in offering StrongStart virtually. You and your child can view videos, sing along, watch, or even take part in these activities at home and safely around your community. October StrongStart opportunities are posted now. Continue to visit this site each week to enjoy new posts.

#OrangeShirtDay2020 Sep 30 Let's keep the discussion going & raise awareness about Indian Residential Schools. Wear orange to honour the children who survived & to remember those who did not #EveryChildMatters #Reconciliation

Learning with Syeyutsus Speaker Series supports Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools' goal of Truth & Reconciliation and Canada’s TRC Call to Action #57. The free learning series kicks off October 13 with Jerry Fontaine, Traditional Governance Through Lived Experience. Join us for an Indigenous learning series featuring Canadian authors and thought leaders. https://trc57speakerseries.ca/ UBC Press Syeyutsus

Island Health has created a webpage to explain the processes involved if a case of COVID-19 is confirmed in a school: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Learning Alternatives shares Happy Holidays video. Not everybody made Santa's nice list.

Get in on the fun while developing incredible leadership skills this fall! LIT and Quest start on October 16 & 17. To learn more, visit http://ow.ly/YNcl50BAxXX... or register at http://ow.ly/u9f650BAxVh or by phoning 250.756.5200. For even more youth program offering this fall, see our Youth Flyer. https://www.nanaimo.ca//recreation-fac/youthflyer_fall.pdf Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools District

Kindness Ninja Project at Pleasant Valley Elementary is building compassionate students. A big shout out to Mrs. Isaachsen's Grade 1 class, who have completed several kindness missions given to them by a friendly Elf on the Shelf named Benson. Mrs. Isaachsen said, I am so lucky to have these students in my class and to see them work with each other. They are inclusive of one another; they notice when other people do kind things for them and they honestly fill my heart and my bucket every day! https://youtu.be/jqerRCNeWqA

Grade 5 Pleasant Valley student, Tyler Manhas, shares his Back-to-School poem that was written as part of an All About Me project. Great poem - thanks for sharing!

A holiday message from Superintendent Scott Saywell. https://youtu.be/YlfeyDRaj4k (with closed captioning)

Check out the beautiful COVID posters Mrs. Creighton's Grade 4/5 class at Georgia Avenue created. Great job on the posters and a good reminder for us all. Thanks for sharing.

Do you have a preschooler? Mark your calendar in January 2020 for the StrongStart Live Virtual Circle Time. There will be songs, stories, games and more...

Supporting the Board's Goal of Truth & Reconciliation en français https://youtu.be/NWDvf5PF5Ck

In addition to the enhanced cleaning protocols this summer, facilities staff were also busy working on updating and preparing schools for the return to school in September. Some of the projects included painting, setting up portables, installing an irrigation system and fire alarms, installing a new Kindergarten suite, and more...We appreciate what you do!

Country Grocer continues its generous contribution to our community at Christmas time. Thousands of dollars in gift cards distributed throughout 13 schools. Big thanks for spreading the holiday cheer!

John Barsby Community School is looking pretty festive these days. The Leadership team decorated the school and initiated a door decorating contest transforming the school to create some holiday cheer. Now that is a Christmas tree! https://youtu.be/NtkqbHBALYU

Kindergarten students in #Ladysmith are learning about compassion and making a difference by helping the community's most vulnerable.

The Nanaimo Pride Society hosts drop-in sessions for LGBT2SQIA+ youth ages 13-24 years on Mondays from 6 to 8pm. To find out more and/or register, text (604) 315-1522.

Did you know a Canadian was part of the team who drafted and won support for the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)? Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10 the day the United Nations adopted, in 1948, the UDHR. This milestone document proclaims the inalienable rights which everyone is entitled to as a human being - regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. Available in more than 500 languages, it is the most translated document in the world. https://youtu.be/iUN8-8BUHXk

The most recent COVID-19 exposure for Randerson Ridge Elementary has been lifted. Island Health has identified an error with the lab results. Therefore, there was no potential exposure at Randerson Ridge from December 2 to 4, 2020. Individuals self-isolating have been cleared to return to the school immediately.

Boys and Girls Clubs of Central Vancouver Island offers virtual programs for children, parents and caregivers in the community - Gen Q, Purple Girlzillas, Flex your head, Parents together & more...Programs begin in Jan 2021 and they're FREE! https://www.bgccvi.com/

City of Nanaimo Local Government Mayor Leonard Krog recognizes Nathan from Pleasant Valley Elementary for winning 2nd place in the City's Public Works Art Contest. #singingsuperintendent shares a song as city and district celebrated with Nathan &his family via zoom. Congratulations - keep sharing your art skills. https://youtu.be/a349V_TxkJA

NDSS has experienced a COVID-19 exposure. Potential exposure dates are December 2 to 4. Island Health is currently contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Randerson Ridge has experienced a COVID-19 exposure. Potential exposure dates are December 2 to 4. Island Health is currently contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Forest Park Elementary has experienced a COVID-19 exposure. Potential dates from Nov 30 to Dec 4. Island Health is currently contact tracing (Sunday, Dec 6). Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Wellington Secondary has experienced a COVID-19 exposure. Potential dates are December 3 & 4. Island Health is currently contact tracing (Sunday, Dec 6). Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

A big shout out to all the volunteers out there. The impact you contribute is appreciated! Since 1985, the United Nations Volunteers founded International Volunteer Day on December 5. This special day promotes and is dedicated to the work of volunteers locally, nationally and internationally.

Another Annual General Meeting for the history books! Congratulations to Trustee Charlene McKay who will be returning as Board Chair and to Trustee Jessica Stanley who has been elected as Vice-Chair.

The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award - Canada hosts Award at School Virtual Open House for educators on Thursday, December 3 @ 4pm. Learn how the Award framework has impacted other schools & students. Hear from school leaders and young achievers.

John Barsby Community students Ketty & Jackie interview Science Teacher Mr. Pistor for the school's new Paw'dcast. Mr. Pistor shares his scientific knowledge about the #coronavirus; talks about his career & philosophy. 32 years at Barsby - wow! https://youtu.be/gP49_dEbdYU

Seaview Elementary students show their gratitude and appreciation for front line workers at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. Grade 6/7 students have been busy making 500 stained glass paper hearts for the windows in the hospital. The students also hope it will bring a smile to all the patients.

Does your child turn five years old before December 31, 2021? If so, Kindergarten registration begins on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 8am. Registration is online https://www.sd68.bc.ca/students-p/registration-information/. Questions? Email [email protected]

Need an idea for #GivingTuesdayCA December 1? How about helping local students through the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation https://www.nlsf.ca/ you can choose where your money goes: Food4Schools, Scholarships & Bursaries, Student Support Fund and more...

Here is this week's COVID-19 update from Superintendent Scott Saywell. https://youtu.be/XQXt9fPu0Pk A full transcript is available in the YouTube video description.

Departure Bay Eco-School students learned valuable lessons during their outdoor cooking class this fall. Students learned how to bake cakes, pasta, bread and more...they also used produce from the school's garden as ingredients for their cooking lessons. https://youtu.be/_WoNErWSbbY

#WorldChildrensDay is celebrated November 20. Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools honours the commitment of the United Nations to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide & improving children's welfare.

Congratulations Rock City Elementary students Jayden & Caitlyn who were recognized by the Mayor of Nanaimo Leonard Krog, Board of Education Chair Charlene McKay, Trustee Tania Brzovic, as well as city and district staff recently. The students won 1st & 3rd place respectively in the annual City of Nanaimo Public Works Art Contest (2019 submissions) Stay tuned, the 2nd place winner will be recognized soon. https://www.sd68.bc.ca//mayor-leonard-krog-recognizes-stu/

You have a few more days to provide feedback on two draft polices - check out link below

Nanaimo Child Development Centre hosts online knowledge webinar Let's Talk about Drugs on Thursday, November 26 from 6 to 7:30pm. Join Counsellor Michael Mills from Island Health Discovery Youth & Family Substance Use Services for an interactive webinar for parents and caregivers. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/lets-talk-about-drugs-with-mich

Superintendent Scott Saywell and SD69 (Qualicum) Superintendent Keven Elder had the opportunity to ask Island Health MHO for Central Vancouver Island, Dr. Sandra Allison, questions they have been receiving from the community. https://youtu.be/olFaS6qrL1o If you want to listen to a specific question, check out the YouTube video description.

Nanaimo Museum & Mid-Island Metis Nation host a special Métis Heritage Display until Saturday, November 28. Learn about Métis history & Louis Riel.

Frank J. Ney Elementary has experienced a COVID-19 exposure on Thurs Nov 12. Individual is at home isolating. Island Health has completed contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Additional COVID-19 exposure at John Barsby Secondary. Dates of exposure are November 9 & 10, which are in addition to the date of the first exposure of November 6, 2020. This would now be considered a cluster. Individual at home isolating. Island Health officials completed contact tracing. For everyone’s safety, Island Health suggests to:... - Perform daily health checks - Stay home if sick - Wear a mask when outside your cohort or family bubble - Limit activity and social events - Stay close to home Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

John Barsby Secondary has experienced a COVID-19 exposure on November 5 and 6. Individual is at home isolating. Island Health is contact tracing and have or will identify close contacts. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details on the process Island Health follows during an exposure: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

Additional COVID-19 exposure at Dover Bay Secondary. Exposure dates November 2, 5 and 6. Individual already at home isolating and not in attendance this week. Island Health officials performing contact tracing. Thank you to the school community for your cooperation. For more details: https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about//exposures-schools

The fall edition of ConnectEd is available now! Learn how the district is reducing green house gases, how you can get a head start on saving for education, about the Identity song & interview with Ash Edward, meet Secretary-Treasurer Mark Walsh & more... https://www.sd68.bc.ca/connected/2020-fall/?page=1

John Barsby Community School launches 1st Pawd Cast to share plans for the school's 1st virtual Remembrance Day assembly. http://ow.ly/9C2H50Ch5YN

Calling all photographers! The Regional District of Nanaimo is running a photo contest with a special youth category. Youth can win a $100 gift certificate from a local business winner's choice. Look for Your Region Category. There are other categories for everyone as well. Share the beauty of the region. getinvolved.rdn.ca/photo-contest

Please take a moment to watch this COVID-19 update from Superintendent Scott Saywell.

StrongStart parents are invited to pick up play packs November 16 & 17 between 9 and 11am. The packs are filled with materials intended to inspire & create play opportunities at home.