Frequently Asked Questions about St. Aidan Catholic Elementary School
Why does the school insist on “nut-free” lunches and snacks?
We have several children at St. Aidan School who have life-threatening allergies to nuts and nut
proteins. The best way to keep them safe is to avoid all contact with nuts and nut protein. We ask that
you read the list of ingredients on any prepackaged food item that you are sending with your child. If
the food contains nuts or if the label says “may contain traces of nuts/peanuts/etc.” , then that food
item is not appropriate for school. To further safeguard against potential allergic reactions we do not
permit children to share food. If you would like to celebrate your child’s birthday, we ask that you DO
NOT send in doughnuts, cupcakes, timbits or other treats to share with classmates. These items are not
guaranteed nut-free. If you choose, we suggest pencils or erasers for classmates, or you may donate a
book in your child’s name to the school library.
Why is my child required to purchase a student agenda?
Student agendas assist students, parents and teachers to keep track of homework, assignments and
important dates. They are an effective tool for teaching students organizations skills that will support
them through their lifetime of learning. In addition to a weekly and monthly calendar the St. Aidan
Student Agenda contains information about our Catholic Virtues program, our Parent/Student
Handbook, the school year calendar which identifies all PD days and holidays, the Catholic Code of
Conduct, important information on board policies regarding homework and personal electronic devices,
and a valuable liturgical resource. Teachers and parents will use the agenda as a means of
communication between home and school. Agendas are required for every student from Grade 1 to
Grade 8. The cost for each agenda is $6.
Why does my child not bring home school textbooks?
Textbooks are designed to support student learning and enhance the program of instruction provided by
the classroom teacher. In addition to being very costly to replace, textbooks do not cover the entire
curriculum in any subject at any grade. Every student will have a notebook for each subject that will
contain examples and the lessons and material necessary to prepare for tests and assignments.
Why can’t I help my child complete assignments and projects at home?
The Ministry Document Growing Success (2010) outlines the procedures and policies that we use for
assessing and evaluating student work. The document states “to ensure equity for all students,
assignments for evaluation and test or exams are to be completed under the supervision of a teacher.”
Why are parents not permitted in the school yard?
Teachers and staff are on duty in the school yard from 8:05 a.m. until school begins, and from dismissal
until 3:05 p.m. each day, to supervise students. Parent supervision is not required in the school yard.
We ask that parents remain on the ‘parent’ side of the painted boundaries in our schoolyard.
Why does my child bring home wrappers and waste from his/her lunch?
As Christians, we recognize that we are stewards of God’s creation. We teach our students to respect
the gift of creation and to protect our natural resources. At this time, the City of Brampton/Region of
Peel compost program is not available in schools. In an effort to reduce the amount of garbage we send
to the landfill each week we encourage students to recycle their lunch containers whenever possible.
Non-recyclable containers and wrappers, and compostable waste, will be returned home to be disposed
of appropriately.
Why will my child serve a recess detention for arriving late to school?
Our school day begins promptly at 8:20 a.m. Students are expected to be in the schoolyard at least 5
minutes before the bell rings, to line up and enter the building as a class. Arriving late for school
deprives the student of important learning time and creates unnecessary disruptions for the rest of the
class. Students who arrive for school late will ‘make up’ the time during morning recess. Students are
supervised by Mrs. Peel or Mrs. Strudwick, and they are invited to bring a book to read during the recess
break. If your child has a doctor’s appointment that will result in a late arrival, please call the school
attendance line and let us know. These ‘excused’ lates will not result in a recess detention.
Why are cell phones, cameras and other electronic devices not allowed at school?
Dufferin-Peel Catholic School Board policy prohibits the use of Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) on
school property. PEDs include any digital or communication device such as mp3 players or iPods,
cameras and cellular phones. Students are not permitted to use PEDs on school property (including
school buses) or during school related events. In the event that your child has a cell phone for safety
reasons (such as walking home alone, etc.) the phone MUST be turned off and kept out of sight during
the school day. Students who do not adhere to this policy will be subject to disciplinary action.
and, most importantly…
What can I do to support my child in achieving his/her potential?
Children need structure and routine, adequate sleep and fresh air and exercise. The most important
thing a parent can do to support a child’s academic success is to ensure the child gets enough sleep and
attends school regularly and on time.
We look forward to working with you during an exciting and challenging year for your child. On-going
communication with your child’s teacher will be an important part of our success this year. Please stay
in touch.
St. Aidan Catholic Elementary School
905-840-3042
Enlightened by Knowledge, Enriched by Faith