January 12, 2026 - Family Newsletter

Important Dates

January 13:  Junior Boys Volleyball game vs. Whitchurch Highlands P.S.

                     Subway lunches for those who ordered

January 14:  Junior Girls Volleyball game vs. Wendat Village P.S.

                     Dominos Pizza lunches for those who ordered

January 15:  Reach for the Top Trivia Tournament

                    Plates & Bowls lunches for those who ordered

January 16:  PA Day - no school for students

January 19:  Intermediate Boys Basketball game vs. Spring Lakes P.S.

January 20:  Junior Boys Volleyball game vs. Summitview P.S.

                     Subway lunches for those who ordered

January 21:  Junior Girls Volleyball game vs. Summitview P.S.

                     Dominos Pizza lunches for those who ordered

                     School Council Meeting - 7pm

January 22:  Plates & Bowls lunches for those who ordered

January 26:  Junior Girls Volleyball game vs. Spring Lakes P.S.

January 27:  International Holocaust Remembrance Day

                    Junior Girls Volleyball Areas

                    Subway lunches for those who ordered

January 28:  Junior Boys Volleyball Areas

                     Dominos Pizza lunches for those who ordered

January 29:  National Day of Remembrance of the Quebec City

Mosque Attack and Action Against Islamophobia

                     Intermediate Girls Basketball game vs. Spring Lakes P.S.

                     Plates & Bowls lunches for those who ordered

January 30:  PA Day - no school for students

February 3:  Grade 3 Field Trip to Heritage Schoolhouse (Ms. Smiley and Ms. Kaur’s classes)

                    Intermediate Girls Basketball game vs. Wendat Village P.S.

                    Subway lunches for those who ordered

February 4:  Grade 3 Field Trip to Heritage Schoolhouse (Ms. Rai and Ms. Pegg’s classes)

                     Intermediate Boys Basketball game vs. Whitchurch Highlands P.S. 

                    Dominos Pizza lunches for those who ordered

February 5:  Grade 3 Field Trip to Heritage Schoolhouse (Ms. Taylor’s class)

                    Plates & Bowls lunches for those who ordered

January is Tamil Heritage Month

February is Black History Month

A Message From the Office

With winter weather here, we want to share a few important reminders.

Entry and Dismissal:  Please review the message sent to all families last week about safe drop-off and pick-up.  

Dress for the weather:  Students should come dressed appropriately for the weather and for outdoor play. Students can stay warm by wearing layers of loose-fitting clothing, a hat, scarf, jackets, snow pants and mittens or gloves. Students may also want to bring extra pants and socks in case they get wet.

Recess:  If students are well enough to come to school, they are expected to go outside for recess. Our students benefit from spending time outside and being active. We monitor weather conditions throughout the day. If there are extreme weather conditions, we may consider a shortened or indoor recess.

Bus or School Cancellations:  When an extreme cold or inclement weather day is declared, school transportation (including buses and taxis) is cancelled in the morning and afternoon. Schools will remain open. Please notify the school if your child will not be attending school on those days. Students will not be penalized for missing school on these days.

There may be rare instances when emergency weather events occur and we need to close all schools and Board locations. Please take the time to make plans in the event of an emergency school closure. Information about transportation cancellations and Board closures will be shared through local media, board and school websites and on X @YRDSB.

Our process for extreme cold, inclement weather and emergency weather days is outlined in the board’s Severe Weather policy.

Keeping Our Students Safe

Allergies: Please make sure snack and lunch items are nut-free, peanut-free, and sesame-free.  Please ensure items dropped off for lunch from eateries are also free of these items (e.g., no sesame on McDonalds burger buns). 

Children with Epi-pens need to carry them throughout the day.  Families needing support accessing pouches/other materials are invited to contact the school.

Bussing:  Families of students taking the bus are reminded that late bus reports are issued through the school transportation portal if the bus is expected to be more than 10 minutes late. Please check this report if you are wondering whether a bus is on time.

Parking Lot: Thank you to all who have continued to follow procedures that minimize congestion and help keep our parking lot safe.  If driving, please ensure students are only dropped off/picked up in the designated area.  

• Morning Drop-Off: When possible, Kindergarten students will be helped by a staff member to exit the car, and older students can be dropped off independently.
• Afternoon Pick-Up: Families of Kindergarten students are asked to display the sign on their dashboard so we can prioritize access to the pick-up area beginning at 3:30pm.  Families of older students will be directed into the pick-up area after Kindergarten pick-up is completed.
• Crossing: We encourage families and students to cross at the crosswalk for safety.

Parking Spaces: Open parking spaces are available for families who wish to park their cars and walk with their children at drop-off or pick-up times. Please do not park or idle your car in the crosswalk or the driving lanes of the parking lot as it is unsafe and results in congestion.

Reminders

Student Absences need to be communicated to the office as soon as possible via Edsby or by calling the school at 905-591-3800. The school needs to be notified of all absences, including those due to inclement weather and/or bus cancellations. 

If picking up students during the day (e.g., for medical appointments, etc.), please try to do so outside the recess and lunch times:

Recess: 11:10am - 11:40am            Lunch: 1:00pm - 2:00pm

Address/Phone Number Changes: Please notify the office by email (barbara.reid@yrdsb.ca) if your address, phone number, or email contact information has changed. Up-to-date information helps us in our communication with families.

YRDSB Diamond Days and Significant Faith Days 

September 2025 - June 2026

To view the YRDSB Significant Faith Days Calendar, please visit: https://www2.yrdsb.ca/student-support/equity-and-inclusive-education/significant-faith-days 

*The asterisk denotes that observations for the marked date begin on the preceding evening at sunset and/or that dates are subject to the sighting of the moon each month and may vary for some communities 

From the Board

Students in Grades 5–12 can help choose the student trustees who will represent their voice at the school board. 

From January 12-18, students can vote for the student trustee candidate who will represent our area in the final election taking place February 17-20. Voting closes January 18, 2026 at 8:00 p.m.

How to Vote:

Students will receive an email in their GAPPS account with:

• A link to candidate information
• A voting form

Please remind your child to check their email and submit their vote.

Student Trustees:  Student trustees play an important role representing students in the school board. They network with students, staff and the Board of Trustees to share information that gives students a meaningful voice.  Learn more about the role and the election process at www.yrdsb.ca/studenttrustees.

Arts@Baythorn Regional Elementary Arts Program

Current grade 4 and 5 students are invited to apply for grade 5 and 6 programs for September 2026. Applications are open on Edsby from January 12- 28, 2026. Please note that late applications will not be accepted. 

To apply or for more information please visit the Baythorn Arts webpage.

Please note the Edsby application link will open on January 12, 2026 and close at noon on January 28, 2026.

If you have any further questions, please reach out to baythornarts@gapps.yrdsb.ca. 

March Break 2-Day Camps 2026

This year, the Community Safety Village will be offering a 2-day camp during March Break for students in grades 4, 5 or 6.  The theme of each 2-day camp will focus on Emergency Services in York Region such as our Police, Fire, and Paramedics. There is no charge for this camp.

You may either choose March 16-17, OR March 18-19. 

You may only choose 1 of the options.

Registration opens January 13th, 2026.

For more information, please visit: https://csv.simplybook.me/v2/#page/march-break-camp-information

French Immersion Information Night at Spring Lakes P.S.

Parents/guardians of Year 2 Kindergarten students entering Grade 1 in 2026, and wishing to enrol in the French Immersion (FI) program are invited to an information meeting.

Where:  Spring Lakes PS - Gymnasium

When:  Thursday, January 15, 2026

Time: 7:00 pm

Registration for the French Immersion program will begin on January 16, 2026.

To enrol in the FI Program, parents/guardians can email or call their home school office and indicate their intention to enrol.

Families are asked to register by February 9, 2026. Registration during this period is not first come, first served.

Late registrations are those submitted after February 9, 2026. Late registrations will be treated on a first come first serve basis.

Additional information is available on our website.

Tamil Heritage Month Celebrations

Inclusive Schools and Community Services (ISCS) will be hosting Tamil Heritage Month celebrations across the region in January 2026. This year’s celebration highlights culture, storytelling, community, and identity. Join us for a vibrant evening celebrating Tamil Heritage Month, featuring storytelling, music, and community connection.

Tamil Heritage Month celebrations will take place at the following locations:

• North: Stouffville District Secondary School January 19, 2026, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
• East: Middlefield Collegiate Institute January 20, 2026, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
• West: Michael Cranny Elementary School January 28, 2026, 5:00-7:00 p.m.
• Central: Charles Howitt Public School January 29, 2026, 5:00-7:00 p.m.

All students, families, staff, and community members are welcome to attend.

Registration Deadlines

• North and East celebrations deadline is January 16, 2026.

• West and Central celebrations deadline is January 26, 2026.

Please see our flyer for more information and the registration link.

For further information, please contact Inclusive School and Community Services (ISCS) at iscs@yrdsb.ca.

Understanding and Navigating the Education System:  Families of YRDSB Black Students Monthly Virtual Information Session 

Monday, January 26, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

Families, parents, and caregivers, please join us for our monthly virtual meeting, where families with Black children come together to learn about resources and upcoming programs for Black students in both elementary and secondary schools.  Please see our flyer for more information and the registration link.

Embracing Winter: Building Warmth and Resilience

Student Mental Health and Addictions Newsletter - Winter 2025

Please visit the newsletter for resources, tips, and information about programs and events for children, youth, families, and caregivers.

York Region Public Health:  Healthy Tip Sheet

York Region Public Health is seeing more student absences due to illness. The flu, stomach flu (norovirus) and the common cold are spreading fast. Here are some tips to stay healthy!

Coats for Kids

Free winter clothing for children and adults in need.

Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.  October 11, 2025 to January 31, 2026

The Quaker Meeting House  17030 Yonge St. South of Eagle St.

Due to high demand, clothing will only be given to those who are present. Please bring all family members who need clothing!

For more information contact:  The North Newmarket Lions Club: 905-895-1441  OR  The Newmarket Lions Club: 905-252-3203

SELF-CARE & THE POWER OF CONNECTION A Gathering for Black Parents of Children and Adults with a Disability

Join NACCA and Sawubona for a safe, affirming space for families of African descent to come together, share resources and expertise and support one another through the unique and often challenging journey of raising Black children or supporting a sibling of any age, with a disability.

Sawubona (pronounced SOW:'bɔh:nah) is a Zulu greeting meaning “I see you.”   This workshop invites families and loved ones into a space that values community and connection.  Featuring a keynote talk, Q&A, light refreshments and fellowship.

Sunday, January 25, 2025 | NACCA Hub - 449 Eagle St | 1–3pm

YSSN Transition Resource Planning Days

Need help understanding the developmental services system and transition planning? Do you have an IEP? Book a free, one (1) hour session, with a transitional planner to discuss and ask important questions related to your situation.  

We can: 

1. Discuss the differences between elementary and high school

2. Share tips and strategies to help you and your child prepare for life in high school

3. Help fill out forms and applications (e.g. ODSP, SSAH, Mobility Transit, etc.)

4. Share options for after high school and adult life

These sessions are for individuals who have a developmental disability, have an IEP, are in high school or recently graduated and need help planning adult services. Also included are students in Grade 8 with an IEP preparing to transition into high school.  YSSN.ca Register here

Ask an SLP (Speech Language Pathologist): Exploring Language Development

Join a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) from Sunbeam Community & Developmental Services for a practical and interactive webinar focused on exploring language development for children 6 and under.  Caregivers of early language learners will learn strategies to support their child - whether they are not yet talking, using only single words, repeating everything (echolalia), or beginning to explore augmentative forms of communication.

This workshop is targeted to families and caregivers with children aged 0-6 yrs old who have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder and are registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).

This session will include a brief presentation and time to ask questions about helping your child strengthen their speech and language skills.

Key takeaways:

• Parents will feel more empowered and better equipped to support their child's language development
• Discover helpful tips to encourage communication at home
• Ask your questions directly to a qualified SLP

Date: January 21, 2026 @ 7:00 pm - January 21, 2026 @ 8:30 pm  Venue: Virtual

The Parent Workshop Series

A virtual, parent-only program consisting of 3 evening sessions for parents and guardians of students with learning disabilities and/or ADHD in Grade 7 or 8 in Ontario. 

The goal of the program is to provide parents:

• Information and support to understand their child's experience and potential more fully
• Skills to navigate the school system
• Ability to provide timely and targeted support
• Support to know they are not alone

3 Weekly Sessions:  January 28, February 4, February 11, 2026

6:00-8:00pm EST Virtual

Program is FREE 

To participate, please complete the registration form by January 16, 2026, using the link: https://tinyurl.com/rarcparentprogram.  For more information, contact (613) 533-6311

My Time – Online Support Group for Autistic Parents

My Time is a monthly online support group created for parents who identify as autistic or neurodiverse. Whether formally diagnosed or self-identified, participants are welcome in this safe, supportive, and confidential space.

This group is for neurodivergent adults who are caregivers raising autistic and/or non-autistic children. It’s not a workshop, but a space to connect with others who share similar lived experiences. Members are encouraged to unmask, reflect, and share their journey without judgment.

Hosted by Maxine Share, an autistic parent and grandparent with decades of community involvement, the group offers a compassionate environment rooted in understanding and respect.

Date: January 20, 2026 @ 6:30 pm - January 20, 2026 @ 8:00 pm

Venue: Virtual

A Family Journey through the Ontario Autism Program

Join us for an informative session with representatives from AccessOAP, who will guide caregivers through the key components of the Ontario Autism Program (OAP). 

During this workshop, you will:

• Learn about the eligibility criteria for the Ontario Autism Program (OAP)
• Gain an overview of the different services available through the OAP
• Have the opportunity to ask general questions about the OAP

This workshop is for caregivers of children and youth with a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and who are registered with the Ontario Autism Program (OAP).

Date: January 20, 2026 @ 12:00 pm - January 20, 2026 @ 1:00 pm

Venue: Virtual  Please note: We are unable to answer specific questions about your child’s OAP status. Information will be provided about how to connect with an AccessOAP Care Coordinator for any family-specific questions.  

Black Love, Black Joy, Black Resilience - Braided in Love, Wrapped in Joy, Forged in Resilience:  Our Story Lives On

Join YRAACC (York Region African Alliance Canadian Community) for a celebration of Black excellence, history, and culture at our vibrant event - it's a must-attend! 

Date:  Saturday, February 14, 2026  Time:  10:30am-2:00pm Location:  Lauremont School, 500 Elgin Mills Rd E, Richmond Hill Cost: Free

Register here

NACCA Black Youth Mental Wellness and Empowerment Series 

Join us for a transformative opportunity aimed at supporting Black children and youth in York Region. Our 8-week Black Youth Mental Wellness and Empowerment Series, R.I.S.E (Resilience, Identity, Strength, Empowerment) Program is designed to empower Black children and youth by providing essential mental health education and support.  

Running from October 7, 2025, to June 25, 2026, workshops take place every Thursday—from 6–7 PM for children 12 and under and 7–8 PM for youth ages 13-18. There will be four cohorts. 

Children and youth will gain valuable skills, knowledge and resources to navigate the challenges of mental wellness, all within a supportive community.

By participating in this 8-week culturally affirming R.I.S.E program, children and youth will gain valuable skills, knowledge and resources to navigate the challenges of mental wellness, all within a supportive community. 

Workshop Dates:

• Cohort 2: Jan 8, 2026 – Feb 26, 2026 - Hybrid (in-person & virtual)
• Cohort 3:  Mar 12, 2026 – Apr 30, 2026 - (virtual only)
• Cohort 4: May 14, 2026 – June 25, 2026 - Hybrid (in-person & virtual)

Where: Hybrid - In-person (NACCA Hub - 449 Eagle St, Newmarket) and virtual via zoom

Please complete this form to allow us to learn more about you and what you are looking to gain from this program.

For more information, contact info@yorkregionacc.ca or 647-425-5700

Parents of Black Children Homework Help & Tutoring

Parents of Black Children is offering free 25-minute drop-in tutoring and homework help sessions inside the Omo Africentric Virtual Campus, also known as The ‘O’, Monday to Thursday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

• Mondays & Wednesdays → Grades K–12, all subjects

• Tuesdays & Thursdays → Grades K–8, all subjects

Our dedicated team will assist students in all subjects to help them succeed academically in a supportive and affirming environment.  For more information, please visit: https://parentsofblackchildren.org/the-omo-africentric-virtual-campus  If you have any questions, please contact Givens Owusu (Program Manager) at givens.owusu@parentsofblackchildren.org.

Community Resources for Cantonese and Mandarin-Speaking Families

 These services are offered in Cantonese and/or Mandarin: many of these services are free and others are offered on a sliding-fee scale to families.

BRPS Photo Gallery