St. Monica School
60 Sterritt Drive
Brampton, Ontario L6Y 5B6
Tel (905) 454-6346 Fax (905) 454-6349
www.dpcdsb.org/MONIC
March 2015
Newsletter
Principal’s Message
Easter is fast approaching; it is time to rejoice as we prepare to celebrate Holy Week and the
Sacred Triduum.
On Easter, we will have an opportunity to renew our baptismal vows and celebrate the
resurrection of our Saviour Jesus.
As we prepare for this special time, we should remember those things for which we are thankful.
The Christian High Holidays will begin on Holy Thursday April 2 and end on Easter Sunday, April
5. Throughout Holy Week, from March 29 through April 5, we will continue to prepare for the
resurrection of the Lord.
Mississauga Brampton
Central Family of Schools
L. Papaloni
Superintendent
P. Peroni P. D’Agostino
Principal Interim Principal
J. Vieira
Vice Principal
C. McIntyre
The Easter season ends with Pentecost.
The staff and students of St. Monica would like to wish our community a joyful Easter spent in
prayer and celebration at church with family and friends. You are welcome to participate in our
Holy Week Celebrations.
Head Secretary
E. Weseloh
Assistant Secretary
Tish G.
Council Chair
A. da Silva
Trustee
Dates to Remember March 2: Newsletter Home
March 3: Mini Hockey Tournament
March 5: Graduation Photos, FDK YEAR Two (SK Photos)
Healthy School Team St. Augustine 3:30 p.m.
March 6: Snow White Presentation School Gym K-Gr. 6
March 11: Rosary Apostolate
March 11: Reconciliation St. Jerome Parish 7:30 p.m.
March 12: BIG CRUNCH DAY
Gr. 2 Rosary St. Augustine
March 16-20: March Break-ENJOY!
March 23: Welcome Back!
March 26: BIG GULP
March 27: Earth Hour At School ; Math Mania Gr. 7&8
March 28: Earth Hour Evening
(905) 890-0708 (ext. 20154)
anna.dasilva@dpcdsb.org
St. Jerome’s Parish
Fr. Jan Kolodynski
Pastor
8530 Chinguacousy Rd.,
Brampton, Ontario
905-455-4260
ADDITIONAL DATES: PIZZA DAYS March 5, March 12, March 26, April 2
Cookie Days: March 10, March 24; Mr. Sub Day: March 25
March 29-April 3: HOLY WEEK
March 30: Palm Monday- 9:20 GYM
March 31: 7 Last Statements Of Jesus--P.A. 9:25 a.m., Scientists in the School Gr. 7&8
April 1: 9:20 Gospel Rdg-P.A. 9:25 a.m.
April 2: 10:30 Passion Play-Gym
April 3-6 Easter
April 7: Newsletter Goes Home, Welcome Back
Attachments: Catholic Graduate Expectations, ECO, Psychology Tips, Numeracy
Website: www.stjeromeparish.ca
Principal’s Message:
March already, how time flies. Thank you so much for
your prayers and well wishes during my recovery, as we
continue to pray for your families as well. We are so
fortunate to have P. D’Agostino as our interim Principal,
and by now many of you have had the chance to get to
know him and meet him. We are in contact on a regular
basis, which has made the transition beneficial to all. As
always C. McIntyre keeps the office managed with such
efficiency and has also been fabulous during the
transition. In February, so many exciting things have
happened, and we are fortunate that our students,
parents and staff have been so flexible. Our extracurricular continues to grow thanks to our dedicated staff
and parents. In February The Gator Hockey team had
exhibition games and we were excited to reestablish our
team. At St. Monica School we continue to educate our
students in so many areas, and again we thank each and
every one of you for your continued support,
understanding and flexibility. At St. Monica School “We
are Family”, inclusive of each other, our school council,
the school board, and yes St. Jerome’s-our parish and
Fr. Jan our Pastor. Together great things continue to
happen!
VIRTUE OF THE MONTH:
This month we are focusing on “Kindness”. Kindness God
wants us to be kind to everyone we meet. Being kind is
about more than just pretending to be nice. It is about
helping and playing with others
because we want to and not
because we feel we have to.
God helps us to be kind to our
family and friends because by
being kind we are able to see
God in every one we meet.
“If you love those who love, what
credit is that to you? Even sinners
love those who love them. If you
do good to those who do good to
you, what credit is that to you?
For even sinners do the same. If
you lend to those from whom you
hope to receive, what credit is that
to you. Even sinners lend to
sinners, to receive as much again.
But love your enemies, do good,
and lend, expecting nothing in
return.” Your reward will be great,
and you will be children of the
Most High; for He is kind to the
ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Luke 6:27-36
Virtues Recognition:
On Feb. 26, our Student Faith Ambassador Team Eco team and Staff
held another memorable recognition Assembly. All are highly commended
for their lead and presentations. The following students received
certificates and St. Monica tokens for excellence in displaying the following
virtues; PRIMARY: SELF-CONTROL: Christian K. (FDK, S. Alves),
Anaya (FDK, J. Correia, C. Thornton), Dayna (Gr. 2, S. Perruzza)
RESPECT: Natalie T. (Gr. 1, T. Gratton), Emily O. (Gr. 3, M. Heitzner),
Jerome W. (FDK, J. Correia, C. Thornton)
JUNIOR: SELF-CONTROL: Alicia (Gr. 4, J. Marshall), Nosa O.B. (Gr. 6,
A. Attinello), Natalie K. (Gr. 4, L. Marasco) RESPECT: Reese Q. (Gr. 5.
M. Scalise), Khari W. (Gr. 6, L.Gredi), Alexia P. (Gr. 4, L. Marasco)
INTERMEDIATE: SELF-CONTROL: Aidan B. (Gr. 8, J. Conway); Justine
R. (Gr. 8, M. Zarkovic), Veronica N. (Gr. 7, N. Leo) RESPECT: Kyla L. (Gr
8, J. Conway), Cameron S. (Gr. 8, G. McLeod), Dylan F. (Gr. 7, A. Tac)
Special recognition to L. Marasco’s class whose virtue box was exploding
with Gotchas!!!!! Looking forward to acknowledging additional students for
continued display of our virtues in the following months.
PARISH
NEWS St. Jerome’s Parish
Tel: 905-455-4260, Fax: 905-450-6326
E-Mail: office@stjeromeparish.ca
Homepage: http//www.stjeromeparish.ca
Sunday Eucharist: Saturday 5:00 p.m.,
Sunday 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m.
Fr. Jan “Our Good Father”
Throughout 2015, we will continue to work with Fr. Jan on the faith
formation of students, families and staff. We welcome him at our school
anytime! Father’s lead and guidance with our Gr. 2 Reconciliation
program, Sacramental Preparation visitations, Ash Wednesday
Celebration, is sincerely appreciated. On February 28 many of our Gr. 2
students received their First Reconciliation. Father welcomed, inspired and
highlighted the importance of Reconciliation with God, and each other to
our Gr. 2 students and their families. We also thank Fr. Jan for sharing
Lenten reflections distributed last week, and also posted on our
website.
Important Dates
Wednesday March 11: 7:30 p.m. St. Jerome Parish
Reconciliation –Confirmation candidates encouraged to attend
First Communion: Saturday May 2, 2015, 5:00 p.m.
Confirmation: Thursday May 28, 2015, 7:00 p.m.
Stations of the Cross
All confirmation candidates, families and students are encouraged to
participate in The Stations Of The Cross at St. Jerome Parish every Friday
evening during lent at 7:00 p.m. This is a special time to reflect on Jesus’
journey in preparation for Easter.
St. Jerome Parish Youth News
The youth group meets weekly on Tuesday evening from 7:30-9 p.m., and
Saturdays from 2-4 p.m. New members Gr. 8-12 are always welcome.
The group is currently practicing for the Good Friday presentation of The
Way Of The Cross. All new members are welcome for both acting and
singing roles.
Kiss and Ride
Thank you to the many parents/caregivers who are
following the directives of safe Kiss and Ride Procedures.
We have had to enlist parents from our school as well as
additional staff to ensure the safety of everyone. It is our
hope that our volunteers can be eased out of their
voluntary roles once everyone fully understands and
follows our safe procedures. Thank you for considering
the safety of all, and not just the door to door or
convenience/speed on your part. Together we will
continue to make this work!
Flexible Boundary Procedure
A reminder to parents/guardians of students that are at St.
Monica under Flexible Boundary.
This procedure is reviewed annually. Permission is granted
under the following conditions:
i) Transportation is your responsibility. The Board will not
provide either transportation or additional supervision for
students admitted under this procedure.
ii) This permission for attendance will be reviewed by the
Principal, annually, no later than the end of March
iii) The student admitted under this procedure does not
automatically become eligible for the secondary school serving
this school. If it is not the secondary school he/she would
normally attend, application for Flexible Boundary consideration
will have to be made to the secondary school principal at the
appropriate time.
If you would like to continue to be granted permission under this
procedure for the 2015-2016 school year, please put your
request in writing by March 24, 2015 by completing a
standardized Flex Boundary Form which will be sent home.
Confirmations for Flex Boundary will be sent out in May.
Anti Racism and Equity Plan
In following through with board policy at St. Monica School we
believe that every student is a unique individual created by God
and for God. To this end our respect for all learners is
embedded in the learning process to help all achieve to their
potential considering the various needs, diverse talents,
heritage, background, areas for growth. Co-operation,
tolerance and acceptance are continued requirements at St.
Monica School.
Outdoor/Indoor Shoes
Parents/Guardians! We need your help to keep our school
safe, clean and dust-free. Please send an indoor pair of shoes.
If you require assistance please contact the school.
REPOTING ABSENCES
If your child/children are going to be absent or late for school,
we ask that you call the school office and leave a message
(905) 454-6346. Let us know on a day to day basis if your
child will continue to be absent. As a safety precaution we will
always try to contact parents by phone if we have not received
any messages. Your continued cooperation is greatly
appreciated.
St. Monica Website
D. Porter is commended for her diligence in maintaining our
website. This takes time, and we appreciate her time and talent
in keeping the community informed through technology. Luana
F. and Melanie K. are thanked for their council website update
reminders.
SCHOOL HOURS: 9:15-3:45 Bell to Bell, Time on Task
Arriving late for class means that a pupil misses a very
important part of the day - the time when instructions for the
day’s activities are given, discussed and teaching begins.
Entering a classroom late is embarrassing for a child. It
interrupts the lesson for both the teacher and the other pupils.
The habit or custom of punctuality is one that should be
established very early in a child’s school life. School
attendance and punctuality are legal requirements. Bell to
Bell, Time on Task! Please note during prayers and
O’Canada late students will not be admitted until prayers
are completed.
Student Academic Responsibility
Teachers are finding many students who are not completing
their assignments on time. Please encourage your child to fulfill
his or her duty, and ensure that they spend an appropriate
amount of time, productively working on their assignments. All
students are encouraged to read nightly, or review the days ‘
work. Students are encouraged to strive for excellence.
As always we continue to remain vigilant regarding behavioural
and academic expectations.
E.Q.A.O. This year, Grades 3 and 6
students will once again participate in
Provincial Education Quality and
Accountability Office (EQAO) testing to take place
between May 25 and June 5. Since attendance will be
extremely important during the EQAO testing period,
parents are asked, if at all possible, to refrain from
arranging doctor or other appointments during this time.
March Break: Monday March 16, 2015 through
Friday March 20, 2015. Please make note of this week on
your calendar. We look forward to welcoming students back on
Monday March 23, 2015. Enjoy!
GOING GREEN
Thanks to the numerous families whom submitted your e-mail
address for CASL/GOING GREEN, since
newsletter, forms, messages etc., will be
sent electronically. If you have not already
signed up for going green, you still can,
please contact the office. We will still send
out paper copies of newsletters to the
youngest and only for those families whom
did not sign up for this Eco Friendly option.
Winter Continues
Except under unusual conditions, students go outside during
recess and lunch hour. Research indicates that fresh air allows
students to refocus on their studies. The Board, with advice
from the Peel Public Health Department, has established the
policy that all children will be kept inside when the temperature
outside reaches –25 degrees Celsius (including the wind chill
factor) and modified recess when -20 degrees. We will monitor
the weather conditions daily and make decisions based upon
our local conditions. Please bear in mind that children who are
too ill to go outside should be resting at home and should not
be at school. A child who is coughing and sneezing, is not
capable of learning—and is in the position of infecting other
children. We acknowledge that there may be extenuating
circumstances. If this is the case, please let us know.
PLEASE NOTE: In the event that your child is waiting at a
bus stop for a long time, (15-30 minutes) please review a safety
plan, i.e., have your child return home, call you at work, call the
school, and/or go to a neighbors/safe place if you are at work.
If your safety plan permits your child to drive with a specific
designated parent driver in your community, then your child
should be aware whom he/she is permitted to accept a ride
from. The school does not have any liability in this area.
Please review a safe plan with your child.
The Online Reporting Tool
The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School board has developed
a new way to help nurture a safe, caring and inclusive school
environment. The Online Reporting Tool is intended for
students in grades 3 – 8 who become aware of bullying
incidents and negative behaviours. The student can simply
‘click’ on the link found on our school’s website to fill out the
report. The report will then be directly emailed to the principal
and/or vice principal and will be dealt with accordingly.
It is important to recognize that the Online Reporting Tool is an
alternate reporting option. It is best practice to speak directly
with a responsible adult at home and/or in the school.
Catholic Education Week
Schools and parishes across the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District
School Board will host many special events and activities during
the week of May 3rd–May 8th as students and staff celebrate
Catholic Education Week. This year’s theme is Catholic
Education: Exploring Paths of Joy
For more information visit www.ocsta.ca.
Dressing for Winter Weather
A reminder that students do go outside on a daily basis for
much needed physical activity, fresh air, and time spent with
peers. Please make certain that your child comes to school
properly dressed for their time spent outdoors; coats, hats,
gloves, extra gloves, snow pants, and neck warmers. For
younger students a change of clothes (especially socks and
pants) kept at school would help to alleviate calls home or to
your work place.
Bus Cancellation
When all buses are cancelled you are reminded that special
activities such as extra curricular sports etc. will be cancelled.
Thank you for your continued support.
Public Speaking On February 4, we held our Grade 7-8
Public Speaking Contest. Special acknowledgements to
staff for preparing the students and all students who
worked diligently on public speaking initiatives, the topics
were carefully chosen and exceptionally presented.
Congratulations to our Grade 7 students;
Anthony M.-Adventure, Delaine P.-Media Messages on
Body Image, Lauryn D'A-Barbie and our Grade 8 students;
Megan M.-Procrastination, Abbey T.-Disney, Ashley B.Bad Habits, Kassidy A.K.- Jealousy, Isaiah C.Procrastination, Jordan B.-Studying, Emily G.-Bullying,
Lucas C.-Apple Co.
Our winners were: 1st-Lauryn D'A., 2nd-Abbey T., 3rdDelaine P.
Insurance
Choir
With all the activities that take place at school in the playground, the
gym and in sports, accidents happen. Dental injuries can occur
when 2 children accidentally bump heads or fall. The school
board does not carry accident insurance for students. Winter
outdoor activities, extra-curricular and excursions are an additional
reason you may wish to buy student accident insurance. An insurance package was sent home with your child(ren). This is optional
for families. You may purchase coverage for your child at
www.insuremykids.com or by calling toll free at 1-800-463-KIDS
(5437). Please direct your questions to a Reliable Life Insurance
Representative.
Thanks to D. Doyle, M. Hamilton, M. Manalo, C. Thornton and S.
MacDonald who continue to lead our choir. Thanks to the students with their beautiful voices who are committing to our choir!
Their voices at our Ash Wednesday celebration were sincerely
appreciated, at our school and at Burton Manor Nursing Home.
We look forward as our choir competes in May at St. Leonard
Parish.
PALS
M. Manalo continues to work with this dance group, we are looking forward to future competitions. Bravo to M. Manalo and all the students
who are committing to this group.
J. Correia, S. Perruzza and T. Deleo continue to coordinate our
students. Our PALS group works with students outside during lunch
and recess on cooperative games and conflict resolution. We are
pleased at the interest and involvement of staff and students for this
wonderful program .
Math Mania
This year we are pleased that we have a Math Mania team, thanks
to Coaches N. Leo and M. Zarkovic. Students will compete on
March 27th at Our Lady of Peace school. The team will soon be
selected.
Dufferin Peel Skills Canada
Once again we will be entering teams, thanks to J. Mason and D.
Porter for their lead with the students. More information to follow.
Science Olympics
J. Mason and D. Porter took the lead with our Science Olympics,
our 5 students; Jayden M., Christian T., Mark Anthony L., Maya F.,
Julia L. competed on Feb. 27. We are exceptionally proud of their
success. They attained 4th out of 12 and also first in the tallest
structure, BRAVO!
Hockey Team
The team consists of Graham M., John M., Adam F., Lucas C.,
Luke C., Martin M., Aidan B., Matthew K., Joshua S., Justin U.,, and
Ethan T. Coaches are P. Tyers, C. Thornton, J. Marshall, P.
D'Agostino. Parent volunteers: Mr. Camara, Mr. Kowdrysh and Mr.
Bedford and Mr. Frisani. We had one practice on Tuesday Feb.
10th at Cassie Campbell arena. Mr Kowdrysh and Mr. Camara led
the boys in an amazing practice which ended in a fun, high spirited
game of 5 on 5. We had two games scheduled at Cassie Campbell
arena on Tuesday, February 17th and Tuesday, February 24th.
Both games were against St. Ursula Catholic School. Looking
forward to our mini tournament on March 3.
Knights of Columbus Free Throw: On Friday Feb. 21, we
hosted the KOC free throw. Thank you to the many students who
participated. Special congratulations to Alissa L. and Cameron S.
who will be representing us at the Regional tournament on March 7.
Thanks to their parents for driving. Special thanks to L. Gredi and
G. Mcleod for hosting the tournament.
Hip Hop
It is with great excitement that our St. Monica hip hop crew will be competing in our 5th competition at the Rose Theatre this year. Our hip hop
team was established 6 years ago and was formed to symbolize teamwork, respect, commitment, diversity, positive attitude and creating excellent role models in the classroom and in the St Monica community.
The team that will be competing have been together since grade 4 and
now in grade 8 will be their final competition together and final year of
hip hop. The Grade 8 team consists of Jessica S., Abbey T, Isabella F,
Kaelin C., Ashleigh B, Nijaela W, Jasmine C, Megan M, Ceresse C,
Idaya B, and Victoria M. The team and coach M. Manalo would like to
say thank you to all the St. Monica parents and teachers for all their
support and encouragements all these years.
BASKETBALL
Our coaches have been practicing with our students in preparation of their basketball tournaments. Thanks to L. Marasco, S. Alves,
M. Manalo, and S. MacDonald, for volunteering to coach and practice
with our junior students. Congratulations to Erica L., Tatiana J.,
Maya B., Amy H., Dennise D., Nneamaka I., Ava S., Tamara P.,
Alissa L., and Kenya S. The girls were exceptional and made it to
the second round in Mississauga/Brampton. Our junior boys
showed such class and sportsmanship and also made it to the
second round in Mississauga/Brampton.
Bravo to Jonanthan D., Braeden P., Jamal S.H., Nathaniel L.,
Jamari N., Kyle G., Jillani P, Adam S., Nosa O., Zyaire M., Khari
W., Nelson M., and Marco K. Thanks to our exceptional parents
for driving.
STUDENT AMBASSADORS
Under the direction of J. Conway, T. Collier, and A. Tac, the students continue to take the lead on various initiatives throughout
the school.
Student Council
Thanks also to our Student Council for their continued lead throughout
our school. We thank them for all their involvement and suggestions.
Acknowledgements go out to M. Heitzner, L. Gredi and A. Tac for their
lead with the students. Their lead with our door decoration venture was
exciting. Thank you for your support of our student council.
SCHOOL COUNCIL NEWS
Volunteers Needed Thank you to those who filled in and
submitted the Volunteer Network Form. Volunteers are still
required for our Mr. Sub and Poutine Luncheons, please
contact the school for additional information as to what is
involved for this.
Mr. Sub Lunches
Wednesday March 25th is Mr. Sub Lunch for those who
preordered. Thanks to Tish G. for continuing to coordinate
and provide this additional lunch service to our community.
FEBRUARY COUNCIL DANCE A THON
Special thanks to the School Council for coordinating our
February Dance-A-Thon, especially the Planning SubCommittee and helpers: Sandra S., Vilma M., Fatima C.,
Tish G., Luana F., Suzy U., Melanie K.. It is also important
to highlight that the dance-a-thon would not have been a
success without the dedication and hard work of Sandra S.,
Vilma M., and all parents/staff., in seeking out our sponsors
for the major and random prizes. We also received some
generous donations from the community. M. Manalo, A.
Tac, students are highly commended for their lead with our
Kick Off Assembly, and M. Manalo for his D.J. expertise. As
always C. McIntyre is appreciated for her prompt assistance
in assuring all money was accounted for and ready for banking! Our staff is highly commended for their enthusiasm,
support and assistance throughout. Prize winners will be
notified after March Break. We raised approximately
$6,600, a final tally will be forwarded in the near future.
“Blessed are the peacemakers; they shall be called the
children of God.”
Thanks to all our staff and families who continue to reinforce
Peacemaking
School Council Meeting
Our next school council meeting will be held on Tuesday
April 14th at 6:30 p.m., in our library, all are welcome to
attend.
Are You Ticked? – Catholic Ratepayers Have You Checked Your Tax
Bill to Ensure Proper Tax Support?
Help us to maintain our right to publicly funded Catholic Education – if you
are a Catholic ratepayer, we urge you to check your property tax bill to
ensure that your support is directed to your local Catholic school board, in
our case, the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board.
If you are a tenant, you can verify your support by contacting our Admissions Department at 905-890-0708 ext 24511, 24512 or 24519 or your
local municipal office. By ensuring that you are accurately recorded as a Catholic
school supporter, you can help deliver a powerful message to the government
about the level of support for publically funded Catholic school board trustee, you
must be registered as a separate school supporter.
School Council & Community Bulletin Board
Located in front of the library. Feel free to check the bulletin
board regularly for School Council Updates, School/Board Updates
and Community events. Also feel free to visit our fover and big
screen T.V. displaying our students in many activities.
INFOpage - an online resource for information
about awards, scholarships, fundraising opportunities, educational resources, professional development opportunities,
parent/guardian resources and community events. To access the INFOpage, visit www.dpcdsb.org.
Parents and guardians of Dufferin-Peel students can stay upto-date with the latest board news and information by joining the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board ECommunity. Members will receive the latest news and information by email, including media releases, school activities and events, board highlights, school and transportation
cancellations, plus useful tips for parents. Sign up online
TODAY!
DPCDSB is now on
Twitter! For the latest
Dufferin-Peel Catholic
District School Board
news and information
on schools, programs,
in-services, follow us on
Twitter
@DPCDSBSchools
You
may
go
to
www.stopr.ca for daily bus
cancellations or delays.
MILK PROGRAM
We will be continuing our milk program at St. Monica School.
Thanks to M. Hamilton, C. McIntyre, L. Weseloh and our student
volunteers for co-ordinating and distributing.
POPCORN
We continue to have Popcorn and Cookie biweekly Tuesdays.
Bring your toonies and
enjoy a bag of Kernels popcorn or for a loonie
enjoy a cookie. Thanks to M. Zarkovic, N. Leo
and Gr. 8 students for coordinating. Please note during
lent you may wish to have your child donate their popcorn/cookie money towards our St. Jerome Refugee Family
or towards our school contribution to Share Life, more information to follow.
PIZZA
Pizza days will be held three times a
month on Thursdays. Feb. 19, Feb. 26,
March 5, March 12, March 26, and April 2.
Thanks to D. Doyle, J. Conway and the Gr. 8’s for coordinating and all staff for coordinating orders, as well In the
spirit of Lent we will be offering CHEESE Pizza only for
February and March.
HEAD INJURIES
All head injuries can be difficult to diagnose, however, a
concussion is the most difficult head injury to diagnose.
Brain scans cannot determine if a concussion exists,
however, ignoring a potential concussion has grave
risks and potential for serious and long-lasting symptoms.
Symptoms may vary, however, it is critical that educators
report all head injuries to parents/guardians to ensure
appropriate medical care. We are asking for your
support to inform school administration in the event of
any serious injury to the head or concussion sustained
outside of the school.
Return To Play: Most experts suggest two days for each
step.
Step1: No activity, complete rest. Once back to normal
and cleared by a medical professional, go to step 2.
Step 2: Light exercise such as walking or stationary cycling
for 10 - 15 min.
Step 3: Sport specific aerobic activity (skating in Hockey,
running in soccer) for 20 - 30 min., with no
contact.
Step 4: On field practice such as ball drills and other
activities with no contact
Step 5: On field practice with body contact, once
cleared by a medical professional.
Step 6: Game Play
The student must be seen by a doctor and the form
(Request to Resume Athletic Participation) must be
completed and brought to school upon return.
Parenting Tip: Quantity and Quality Both Count: Being there for the
big events is, of course, important, but never forget it counts to be there
in the small moments too. These are times of teaching, modeling, sharing traditions, and learning about who they are as people. Take time,
you will never regret it.
Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, just as you did it to the least of these who
are members of my family,
you did it to me.” (Matthew 25:40)
YOU Make A Difference!!!
Thank you to all parents/guardians who:
•volunteered to coordinate /assist with the Mr. Sub
luncheon
•contact the teacher or office with a concern or compliment
•volunteer on a regular basis or quick notice basis
•assist your children in following our Code of Conduct, and safe bus
procedures
•support all efforts of our school council; particularly our Major
fundraiser-February dance-a-thon
•continue to respect our Kiss and Ride procedures and are following our safe school drive way practices
•worked extremely hard to seek sponsors for our school council
dance-a-thon fundraiser
•took time off work to assist with our dance-a-thon fundraiser
•brought pledge forms to work in support of our dance-a-thon
fundraiser
•attended teacher/student/parent conferences
•took the time to drive students to tournaments/extra-curricular
clubs
•supported out Choir and Staff as they led an Ash Wednesday
Celebration at Burton Manor
This is the moment to continue to teach our faith! In
Catholic schools we provide space and time for the holy.
Let Us Not Forget! One Solitary Life
GOD WILL DO THE REST
I asked the Lord to bless you, as I prayed for you today. To guide
you and protect you, as you go along your way. His Love is always with you, His promises are true, and when we
give Him all our cares, you know He will see us
through. So when the road you’re traveling on, seems
difficult at best,
just remember I’m here praying
AND GOD WILL DO THE REST!
PALM SUNDAY
Palm Sunday commemorates the triumphal entrance of Christ into Jerusalem (Matthew 21:1-9), when palm
branches were placed in His path, before His arrest on Holy Thursday and His Crucifixion on Good Friday. It
thus marks the beginning of Holy Week, the final week of Lent, and the week in which Christians celebrate the
mystery of their salvation through Christ's Death and His Resurrection on Easter Sunday. Beginning in the
fourth century in Jerusalem, Palm Sunday was marked by a procession of the faithful carrying palm branches,
representing the Jews who celebrated Christ's entrance into Jerusalem. In the early centuries, the procession began on the Mount of
the Ascension and proceeded to the Church of the Holy Cross. As the practice spread throughout the Christian world by the ninth century, the procession would begin in each church with the blessing of palms, proceed outside the church, and then return to the church
for the reading of the Passion according to the Gospel of Matthew. The faithful would continue to hold the palms during the reading of
the Passion. In this way, they would recall that many of the same people who greeted Christ with shouts of joy on Palm Sunday would
call for His Death on Good Friday-a powerful reminder of our own weakness and the sinfulness that causes us to reject Christ. In different parts of the Christian world, particularly where palms were historically hard to obtain, branches of other bushes and trees were
used, including olive, box elder, spruce, and various willows. Perhaps best known is the Slavic custom of using pussy willows, which
are among the earliest of plants to bud out in the spring. The faithful have traditionally decorated their houses with the palms from
Palm Sunday, and, in many countries, a custom developed of weaving the palms into crosses that were placed on home altars or other
places of prayer. Since the palms have been blessed, they should not simply be discarded; rather, the faithful return them to their local
parish in the weeks before Lent, to be burned and used as the ashes for Ash Wednesday.
HOLY THURSDAY
Holy Thursday is the day on which Christ celebrated the Last Supper with His disciples, four days after His triumphal entry into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday. Only hours after the Last Supper, Judas would betray Christ in the Garden of
Gethsemane, setting the stage for Christ's Crucifixion on Good Friday.
GOOD FRIDAY
In the Catholic Church, Good Friday is the day on which we commemorate the death of Jesus Christ
on the Cross, the act that brought salvation to all who believe. It is the culmination of Holy Week,
which begins on Palm Sunday, and it takes place two days before Easter Sunday.
HOLY SATURDAY
Holy Saturday is the final day of Lent, of Holy Week, and of the Easter Triduum, the three days (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy
Saturday) immediately preceding Easter, during which Christians commemorate the Passion and Death of Jesus Christ and prepare for
His Resurrection. As on Good Friday, there is no Mass offered for Holy Saturday. The Easter Vigil Mass, which takes place after sundown on Holy Saturday, properly belongs to Easter Sunday, since liturgically, each day begins at sundown on the previous day. (That is
why Saturday vigil Masses can fulfill our Sunday Duty.) Unlike on Good Friday, when Holy Communion is distributed at the afternoon
liturgy commemorating Christ's Passion, on Holy Saturday the Eucharist is only given to the faithful as viaticum—that is, only to those in
danger of death, to prepare their souls.
EASTER SUNDAY: THE GREATEST CHRISTIAN FEAST
Easter is the greatest feast in the Christian calendar. On this Sunday, Christians celebrate the resurrection of
Jesus Christ from the dead. For Catholics, Easter Sunday comes at the end of 40 days of prayer, fasting, and
almsgiving known as Lent. Through spiritual struggle and self-denial, we have prepared ourselves to die spiritually with Christ on Good Friday, the day of His Crucifixion, so that we can rise again with Him.
COMMUNION - OUR EASTER DUTY:
Because of the central importance of Easter to the Christian faith, the Catholic Church requires that all Catholics who have made their First Communion receive the Holy Eucharist sometime during the Easter season, which lasts through Pentecost, 50 days after Easter. (The Church also urges us to take part in the Sacrament of Confession before receiving this Easter communion.) This reception of the Eucharist is a visible sign of our faith and our participation in the Kingdom of God. Of course, we should
receive Communion as frequently as possible; this "Easter Duty" is simply the minimum requirement set by the Church.
St. Monica participated in National Sweater Day on Thursday February 5th, 2015. The heat was turned down by 2 degrees
and all students and staff wore a sweater to match their class theme. S. Guilherme (GAP Kids), A. Tac (Preppy Style), and M.
Zarkovic’s (Ombre Shades) classes won for best Eco Spirit! Congratulations! Way to go Gators, we helped reduce energy consumption!
NEXT EVENT FOR THE ECOTEAM: GREAT BIG CRUNCH!
The 2015 Great Big Crunch will take place on Thursday, March 12th. The entire school will
participate in this local food event by taking a synchronized bite into a crunchy apple
(provided by the school of course). This event will highlight the availability of local produce all
year round. The EcoTeam is working to reduce the waste that our school creates during lunch.
We want to promote lunches that demonstrate healthy eating and that are environmentally
responsible.
Remember St. Monica:
Eco Eyes are everywhere! Put the proper items in the garbage and recycling. Come check
out the bar graph in the foyer to see how your class is sorting!
Waste Free Wednesdays! Every Wednesday pack a waste-free lunch!
LOL- Lights Out Lunches (turn off your class’ lights while you eat your lunch)
BIG GULP On Thursday March 26th St. Monica School will be participating in the "Big Gulp" to continue awareness of the importance of drinking water. We will be taking a "Big Gulp" of water at the same time as led by the
healthy schools team. The Healthy Schools Team have been providing water facts to the school community encouraging everyone to drink water on a daily basis - and in re-usable containers of course! At home, parents and
guardians can continue encouraging students to drink water and bring water to school every day! Those students
who don't have water bottles or who forget will be provided with a cup of water to take the "Big Gulp". Let's continue to drink water together as a school community!
EARTH HOUR: St. Monica School –Friday March 27 for one hour in preparation for Earth
Hour on Saturday March 28, 2015! Let’s All Do Our Part!
It’s Cool to Be an Eco-School! This message is proudly brought to you by the EcoTeam and Healthy School Team!
ONTARIO CATHOLIC GRADUATE EXPECTATIONS
Vision of the Learner This Month: Self-Directed, Responsible, Life Long Learner:
A SELF-DIRECTED, RESPONSIBLE, LIFE LONG LEARNER WHO: Demonstrates a confident
and positive sense of self and respect for the dignity and welfare of others. Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability.
Takes initiative and demonstrates Christian leadership. Responds to, manages and constructively influences change
in a discerning manner. Sets appropriate goals and priorities in school, work and personal life. Applies effective communication, decision-making, problem-solving, time and resource management skills. Examines and reflects on one's
personal values, abilities and aspirations influencing life's choices and opportunities. Participates in leisure and fitness activities for a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Our Catholic School Heritage
In 1990, the Supreme Court of Canada judged that the Canadian Constitution’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms entitles Francophones, where numbers warrant, to have their own school boards. French-language district school boards and Frenchlanguage Catholic district school boards were created. Consequently, Ontario then had four school systems. Three of them—
the English-language Catholic district school boards, the French-language Catholic district school boards and the French language district school boards—had very little access to corporate assessment. One of them—the English language district
school boards—possessed most of the Province’s corporate assessment and therefore, ability to spend much more than their
counterparts on education. Faced with this inequity and a court challenge it was convinced it would lose, the government took
the only logical and fair step. It abolished the power of all school boards to tax and took over all education funding. Now each
pupil, no matter which type of school he or she attends, receives the same per-pupil funding from the government. After 150
years of sacrifice and hardship, Catholic school boards have achieved financial equity. Catholic schools were fundamental in
the early development of our region. With the support of local parishes, bishops and parents, Catholic schools were formed as
an expression of a world view differing from other schools. In 1837 in Mono Township (Dufferin County), a school was dedicated and housed at St. Cyprian Church. Later, a log church housed a local Catholic school at St. Patrick’s in Melancthon Township. In 1864, the first formal Catholic school was developed in Melancthon Township. In Peel, Catholic schools were formed
well before confederation as an expression of the Catholic communities developing in our region. A more detailed history of
Catholic education in our region can be found in the book entitled, Catholic Education in Dufferin Peel—A Story Worth Telling.
Thank you all for continuing to be involved in your child’s catholic Education.
Together we are all stronger through Vision and Dedication!
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