Dear Families,
End of summer weather has arrived with a mix of sun and rain this week. We had our first indoor lunch on Thursday. Not many students were interested in going out in the pouring rain!
Thank you for your ongoing support with the “Away for the Day” expectations for Personal Mobile Devices (PMDs). We are impressed with how well it’s working so far.
It would be helpful if families could review the following:
- PMDs are away at lunch and nutrition
- PMDs need to be stored in lockers at all times. They should not be in pencil cases, zipped binders, cross body bags or large pockets. Earbuds also need to be stored in lockers and not covered by hair or hats.
Students in violation of the Alberta Government’s mandate can expect the following consequences:
- 1st offense- a verbal warning from adult, and asked to put PMD in their locker immediately, and reminded of the policy
- 2nd offense- a verbal reminder to put PMD away immediately, and families will be notified of the offenses
- 3rd offense- PMD will be confiscated and secured by administration immediately, and families will be asked to pick up the phone at their earliest convenience
- 4th offense- PMD will be confiscated and secured by administration immediately, families will be notified, and the student is no longer permitted to bring the device to school.
The number of students we see reconnecting with one another during breaks, laughing, playing games, reading, and a personal favourite - making bracelets, is incredible to see. The positive impact this is having far outweighs the short-term discomfort of adjusting to a new way of being.
Friday, September 13, 2024 marked our first run through the Complementary Wheel for the grades 5 & 6 students! This exciting day was filled with exploratory Drama, Music, Construction, Foods, and Design Studies! Over the course of the year, all grades 5 & 6 students will get opportunities to explore each of these courses.
And lastly, a shout out to our students. We have witnessed many kids helping each other find classes, washrooms, the gymnasium, etc. as many new faces have, and continue to join us this year. Our community is feeling more and more connected each day.
Calendar of Events
- September 1 -30 - Suicide Prevention Month. If you or someone you love is in crisis, help is available.
- Immediate Mental Health Support in Calgary at no charge:
- Alberta's 24-Hour Mental Health Help Line: 1.877.303.2642
- Distress Centre 24-Hour Phone Line: 403.266.HELP (4357)
- EastSide Community Mental Health Services
- Alberta Health Services South Calgary Health Centre Counseling
- Alberta Health Services Sheldon Chumir Counseling
- Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse 24-Hour Phone Line: 403.237.5888
- Thursday, September 19 - School Council Meeting- 6:30PM- Please join to learn about how you can support SWS. All are welcome!
- Friday, September 20 - Grades 8 & 9 Band Clinics
- September 24- 26 - Scholastic Book Fair
- September 26 - Meet the Teacher & grade team Town Halls (specific times and details forthcoming)
- September 27 - Professional Development for Staff- No School for students
- September 30 - National Day for Truth and Reconciliation- no school for staff or students
- Tuesday, October 1- SWS Orange Shirt Day
Your involvement and support are what make our school community strong and vibrant. Thank you for your continued support of Samuel W. Shaw School!
Bobbi, Shannon, & Kerry