Happy Sunday, Samuel W. Shaw Families,
Indigenous Education: Acknowledging the Land in CTF Design & Construction
In the new year, students in Computer Design and Construction will collaborate to explore how borders and maps shape our perceptions of land. They will investigate the relationships between modern borders—such as cities, provinces, and treaties—and the traditional territories, languages, and land use of Indigenous peoples. What shapes the stories that live on Treaty 7 land?
Smudge with Ms. Kerry
In an ongoing effort to provide a culturally safe space for Indigenous learners, Ms. Kerry (Lax Kw’Alaams First Nation) provides Smudge for Indigenous students every Friday. We meet in the new Iikakimat Space at 11:30. All self-identified Indigenous students are welcome to join.
Winter Concert - Band & Choir
The students in choir and band have been working tirelessly to polish their beautiful songs in preparation of the Winter Concert(s)! Students in Band and Choir will be performing on Monday, December 9 for our Samuel W. Shaw student community, and on the “big stage” at Glenmore Christian Academy the evening of December 10, 2024. Glenmore Christian Academy can be found at 16520 24 Street, SW. Please watch for further details from Mrs. (Karla) Smith. Tickets available for the GCA concert from Mrs. Smith.
Samuel W. Shaw’s Makers’ Market
This event has been postponed until the Spring. Look for further messaging then!
Social Media Tips for Parents & Guardians
Supporting our children to make safe, responsible choices online is an on-going and recursive conversation. Following some routine steps can help:
- Establish rules: Just like you wouldn’t give a car to your child without teaching them the rules of the road, parents also should provide parameters before a teen begins to use social media. Think about how often and where they should be using their phones or computers: Is the dining table off limits? What about in their rooms with the door closed?
- ‘Friend’ or ‘follow’ your children: Monitoring your child’s online activity doesn’t mean spying on them, but they should know that parents are aware of—and care about—what they’re up to. For example, teens shouldn’t allow people whom they don’t personally know into their social media networks, and they should never share account passwords with anyone.
- Model the right behaviour: “As parents, ultimately, you only have control over yourself,” says Sarah Voyer, LCSW, Lead Social Worker in the Division of Psychiatry at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “So being conscientious of your own behaviors, whether that’s with phone usage or diet and health, is a big part of parenting. If you do something hypocritical, they’re going to see that.” “Be available, and create media-free spaces in your family life,” adds Dr. Hartstein. “Teenagers can get plenty of content online, but they need parents to give them values.”
- Recognize any behavioral changes and offer to talk: Has your teen’s mood fluctuated? Are they eating differently? Sleeping more or less than usual? Are they isolating in their room? These are some signs parents should be aware of and be prepared to talk about. Dr. Radzik says parents can open a dialogue about their child’s social media use. She stresses the importance of using “I” rather than “you” statements. Instead of, “You’re on Instagram way too much and that’s bad for you,” try, “I noticed this and I’m really worried. Can we talk about it?” If they’re not willing to talk at that moment, let them know you’ll be there when they feel ready.
- Check in regularly: Talking to children and teens about social media isn’t a one-time conversation. The key, according to experts, is checking in frequently and being attentive to and aware of your kids’ media use.
- Be aware of ‘burner phones’ & fake accounts: Burner phones and fake accounts are real. Our kids have them, and are good at hiding them. These are scary for a few reasons. They promote anonymity which can lead to more risky behavior, and they are deceitful by their nature. Being aware and staying tuned in to your child’s behaviour is key. It's okay to ask, "Hey, do you have a burner phone?"
Adapted from: Teens and Social Media - What Parents Should Know
Calendar of Events
- December 9 - Knowledge Keeper, Hal Eagletail w/ Grade 7; Winter Concert! at 2PM - Main Gym
- December 10 - Winter Concert- 6PM @ Glenmore Christian Academy
- December 12 - Maker’s Market CANCELLED
- December 20 - Last Day before WINTER BREAK!
- January 6 - Classes resume
Healthy Hunger Dates
- Jan 23 - The Lunch Lady
- Feb 27 - Coco Brooks
- March 19 - Subway
As the holiday season approaches, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support you bring to our school community. Your kindness and contributions fill Samuel W. Shaw School with warmth and joy, creating a space where everyone feels valued and celebrated.
Your involvement truly lights up our school, inspiring our students, uplifting our staff, and strengthening our shared vision of a thriving and inclusive community.
Looking forward to a joyous holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. Thank you for making Samuel W. Shaw School such a special place!
With warmth,
Bobbi, Shannon, & Kerry