Parkinson Centennial
December 2014 Newsletter
Paola Argentino, Principal
Wendy Clarke, Vice Principal
120 Lawrence Avenue
Orangeville, Ontario L9W 1S8
519-941-2461
Principal’s Message
November was a very busy and productive month at Parkinson Centennial. Our volleyball teams were exceptional (read
more about them in this newsletter). Their work ethic is to be commended! Thank you to Mr. Gammage who coached
both the girls and boys teams. We had a wonderful Remembrance Day assembly, with a variety of students presenting
as well as a member of the Armed Forces. Thank you to everyone who participated, for helping us to remember in a
meaningful way….and to Ms. Clarke and Ms. Buchta for coordinating our assembly. Bully Prevention week took place
across our school board during the week of November 17th. During the month of November, all of our students had an
opportunity to discuss and learn about how to treat others respectfully and with compassion. Shannon Kennedy, our
Child and Youth Counsellor led some wonderful initiatives including a Gotcha board – where students were recognized
for good deeds, and a graffiti wall where students showed their support for our anti-bullying pledge. Thanks for helping
us to share some powerful messages for all PCPS students and staff.
Thank you to all parents/guardians who were able to attend parent-teacher interviews to support our students. It will be
important for parents and students to continue to revisit goals set out in the progress report and interviews throughout
the rest of this term. Research shows that the more a parent is involved in his/her child’s education the better the
student performs. We know that it takes a village! Here are some easy ways to support you child:



Read to him/her each day – choose books that you know your child may not be able to read on his/her own, but
would love to hear read out loud.
Ask your child to read each day (devote 20 minutes per day)
Spend time doing activities with your child: cooking, making lists for groceries, participating in your hobbies.
Doing things together (even chores) can be fun and teach important life skills!
During the month of December we have been practising random acts of kindness thanks to Ms. Johnston. A different
suggestion is posted each day. We are grateful to Mrs. Papavasiliou for organizing “Be a Santa to a Senior”. We are
having a wonderful time showing off our big hearts here a PCPS. Our “Me to We” students have organized a food drive.
Also, two of our grade 7 students, Emma and Emily, have created a mitten/scarf/glove/hat drive called Heat 4 Hands.
This drive goes on until the end of January. Our students possess generous and caring spirits. This is beautiful. You have
taught them well. Thank you.
We understand that while the winter holidays can bring lots of excitement, gift giving, and anticipation of time with
family and friends, for some families, holidays can be a difficult time for a variety of reasons. However you spend your
holiday this year, please be sure to take good care of yourself and find time to connect with the people or places that
are important to you and your family. Wishing you health, peace, and prosperity and sending you my sincerest warm
wishes.
P. Argentino,
Principal
Digital Open House
The UGDSB is hosting an open house featuring displays of how students and staff are using technology to learn. Explore
and learn about Google Apps, Homework Help, Assistive technologies, Chromebooks, and so much more. All parents
are invited to attend this Digital Open House taking place on Saturday, January 24 at Island Lake Public School.
Volleyball News
This year Parkinson had two incredibly successful volleyball teams. The girls’ team,
comprised of grades 6, 7, and 8 students, made great progress throughout the year
and represented Parkinson extremely well at all games. Unfortunately, they lost two
very close games in the semi-finals. On the boys’ side, the team worked very hard and
made it to the finals at Westside Secondary School. The boys put together two
amazing games and won the Dufferin County School Championship against Laurelwoods Elementary School. Thanks to
all players for their hard work and dedication. It was a great season for both teams. A special thanks to the coach, Mr.
Gammage, and to all the wonderful parents who picked up, drove to, and supported their children.
Library News
Book Fair - A big thank-you to everyone who bought something from the Book Fair, which in turn helped support our
library with free books!
Reading Clubs - The Forest of Reading program begins in January. It is a provincial reading program sponsored by the
Ontario Library Association. It promotes enjoyment of reading and makes students aware of great Canadian books,
authors and illustrators. Students read nominated Canadian books in both fiction and non-fiction categories. There are
four different groups: Blue Spruce - grade K - 2, Silver Birch Express - grade 3 and 4, Silver Birch – grade 5 and 6, and Red
Maple – grade 7 and 8. After reading the required number of books students will vote for their favourite book that they
think should win the award in April. Provincial results will be posted in May. This is an enjoyable and educational
experience for children who love to read. I am looking forward to reading the books and discussing them with the
students!
Mrs. Rea
Life Threatening Allergies
While many children have allergies, some children have life-threatening food allergies. We understand that many
parents are becoming increasingly concerned about foods that can cause severe, adverse, allergic
reactions and rely on your support to ensure the safety of all students.
Please help us to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all students, by not sending any
snacks or lunches that contain nuts or nut products.
Reminders and Upcoming Events





January 5 – first day back after Christmas Break
January 8 – Kindergarten and Grade 2 Dental Screening
January 9 and 16 – Junior and Intermediate Cross-Country Skiing
January 23 – PA Day
January 27 – Family Literacy Day