Happy Sunday, Samuel W. Shaw Families
Indigenous Education: in Grade 5
Students in 5-3 & 5-4 read, The Giving Tree: A Retelling of a Traditional Métis Story by Leah Dorion, to learn and understand the 12 Core Métis Values.
These values include: courage, honesty, Mother Earth, patience, tolerance, respect, love, kindness, strength, sharing, balance, and caring.
They then brainstormed and chose an image or symbol to represent their own personal values and made an art piece inspired by Métis dot art and Leah Dorion’s work.
Each art piece is accompanied by an artist statement describing their values.
Smudge with Ms. Kerry
In an on-going 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.
Volleyball Tryouts - Starting Monday, January 6!
Volleyball tryouts begin at 7:45AM TOMORROW. Please see the schedule below in Calendar of Events
Staff Parking Lot - Student Drop Off/Pick Up
Please avoid using the staff parking lot at the front of the school for student drop off in the morning, or pick up at the end of the day. On days where Shawinigan Drive is too snowy, some of our buses use the parking lot for student pick up as well. Please choose a set meeting place that is not the staff parking lot or in front of the school on Shawinigan Drive.
Social Media Tips for Parents & Guardians
Recent guidance for parents emphasizes the importance of managing and monitoring their children's social media use to promote healthy online habits. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends creating a Family Media Plan that sets clear time and content limits, encourages co-viewing, and prioritizes daily routines like sleep and physical activity over screen time. They also advise establishing screen-free times, such as during family meals, and ensuring screens are off at least one hour before bedtime. Additionally, it's crucial to monitor for signs of problematic screen use, including negative emotions following online interactions or screen time interfering with daily responsibilities.
In Alberta, MyHealth.Alberta.ca suggests that parents should be open and honest with their children about social media, discussing both its benefits and potential risks. They recommend setting up a safety plan, utilizing parental controls and privacy settings, and encouraging open communication to ensure children feel safe discussing their online experiences.
Implementing these strategies can help children develop a balanced and healthy relationship with social media.
Calendar of Events
- January 6 - Smudge w/ self-Identified Indigenous students at 10:30AM to start the year in a good way; Classes resume; Jr. Boys’ Volleyball Tryouts at 7:45AM; 3:45 Jr. Girls’ Tryouts
- January 7 - Sr. Girls’ Tryouts at 7:45; Sr. Boys’ at 3:45
- January 8 - Jr. Girls’ Tryouts at 7:45; Jr. Boys’ at 3:45
- January 9 - Sr. Boys’ at 7:45; MRU Volleyball Field Trip; Sr. Girls’ at 3:45; Grade 9 Transition Parent Info Night in SWS gymnasium- 6PM
- January 10 - Centennial Guidance Counsellor Session for 9s
On the Horizon
- January 16 - Grade 9 Vaccinations for students with family consent
- January 27 - Semester 1 ends; RC are visible to families in PowerSchool
Healthy Hunger Dates
- Jan 23 - The Lunch Lady
- Feb 27 - Coco Brooks
- March 19 - Subway
As we step into a new year, we extend our warmest wishes to the entire Samuel W. Shaw School family community. May this year bring joy, growth, and meaningful connections for our students, parents, and staff. Together, let’s continue to build a supportive and vibrant environment where everyone can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Here’s to a year filled with shared successes, memorable moments, and unwavering community spirit. Happy New Year!
With warmth,
Bobbi, Shannon, & Kerry