ROCKRIDGE SECONDARY SCHOOL
5350 Headland Drive
West Vancouver, BC V7W 3H2
Telephone (604) 981-1300 Fax (604) 981-1301
Marne Owen – Principal
Philipine Pereira – Vice-Principal
Craig Chubb − Acting Vice-Principal
The Newsletter of Rockridge School
www.sd45.bc.ca/rockridge
Issue No. 7
April 2009
“CYCLEBETES” IS BACK – APRIL 3 - 4, 2009
Last year, the Rockride and John Henry bike run event, “Cyclebetes” was a huge success. This 24hour spin-a-thon raised over $80,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. This year we
are back on April 3rd and 4th and have an even larger goal. Time is running out so get your
registration forms from the Rockridge office and support this cause! Not a biker? You can also
sponsor existing team members and make donations at www.cyclebetes.com.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact Francesca McDowell at francesca.mcdowell@gmail.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Apr. 1
- Kwantlan Graduation Fashion Show Field Trip
Apr. 3
- Report Cards Distributed in Homeroom
Apr. 3
- Health Fair for Grades 8 and 10
Apr. 3-4 - Cyclebetes 24 Hour Spin-a-Thon Relay
Apr. 6
- Grade 9 Girls’ Immunization - am
Apr. 6
- Canadian Olympic Poster Presentation Grades 8/10
Apr. 7
- “Rockridge Has Talent” Production – 7:00 pm
Apr. 7
- District Forum – Rockridge – Player’s Hall
Apr. 7
- Euclid Math Competition – Grade 12
Apr. 8
- Fryer/Galois/Hypatia Math Contests Grades 9-11
Apr. 8
- LPI Exam – 3:15 pm
Apr. 10
- GOOD FRIDAY HOLIDAY – No School
Apr. 13
- EASTER MONDAY HOLIDAY – No School
Apr. 15
- Scholarship Application Deadline
Apr. 16
- “Sounds of Spring” Band Concert – 6:30 pm
Apr. 18-21 - Biology Pre AP Trip to Bamfield
Apr. 20
- Iron Chef - Blocks A and C
Apr. 20-24 - Kiwanis Concert Band Festival
Apr. 20-24 - Diversity Week
Apr. 21
- Iron Chef – Block F
Apr. 21
- RSPAC Meeting – 8:45 am - Library
Apr. 24
- “Confessions of a Class Clown” – Grade 10
Apr. 24
Apr. 25
Apr. 27
Apr. 28
Apr. 29
Apr. 29
May 1-2
May 5
May 5-7
May 12
May 13
May 13
May 13-18
May 19
May 21
May 20-21
May 22
May 25
May 30
- Provincial Satisfaction e-Ssurvey closes
- Student Council Garage Sale – 9:00 am
- “Safeteen” Workshop
- Rockridge Zone Elementary Band Concert
- Grade 11 Model Parliament to Wosk Centre
- Grade 11 into 12 parent information evening
- BC Student Film Festival
- District Forum – Kay Meek Studio Theatre
- “Web of Murder” Drama Production – 7:30 pm
- Provincial General Election
- Kiwanis Jazz Band Festival
- Biology Pre AP 11 Final Exam – Part 1
- Drama – New York Trip
- Biology 11 and Pre AP Final Exam – Part 2
- Rockridge Fashion Show
- Kiwanis Concert Band Festival
- Pizza Cook Off
- Pizza Cook Off
- Grad Banquet – 6:30 pm
MARK YOUR CALENDAR!
1
MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL
There have been a lot of changes in the last two months. Mr. Steve Rauh has transitioned
over to West Vancouver Secondary School as the school principal and we wish him well in his
new role at his new school. Mr. John Crowley has spent the last two years working at the
district level to implement the new data management system BCeSIS. July 1st, 2009 he will be
joining the team at Rockridge as a Vice Principal. Mr. Crowley did work at Rockridge for two
months in the fall of 2007. He started coaching boys basketball at Rockridge that fall, and has continued to
work with the boys basketball team this past season. Between now and the end of June, Mr. Craig Chubb has
stepped into the role of acting Vice Principal. Starting his teaching career in 2003, Mr. Chubb has taught the
humanities and been a teacher leader with technology in the school. Mr. Chubb is a popular teacher, and we
know that the students will miss him in the classroom, but they will still see him the hallways, cafeteria, gym
and out and about in the school. We have recently hired Mr. Derek Lam to replace Mr. Chubb. Mr. Lam
completed his practicum at Rockridge two years ago under the supervision of Mrs. Brooke Moore and Mr. Dan
Conner. Mr. Lam has been a TOC in the district for the last two years and has frequently spent time in our
school. Mr. Chubb is working with Mr. Lam to make the transition for the students as smooth as possible.
I would like to welcome back Mrs. Avril Foster and Mrs. Alana Reemeyer who have both returned from
maternity leave in the last two months. Mrs. Foster is teaching English and Drama and Mrs. Reemeyer is
teaching French language courses at a variety of grade levels.
The winter sports have ended and the spring sports are already underway. Students are busy practicing for
rugby, soccer, track’n field, and ultimate. It looks like it will be an active season. The drama department is
working on a spring production called, “A Web of Murder”. The students are practicing regularly after school.
On March 2nd, Mrs. Pereira and I had the
privilege of traveling to Victoria to be
present at Government House when Sue
Atwood was presented with the Premier’s
Award for Teaching Excellence. Only 20
educators in the province were recognized.
Mrs.
Atwood
was
recognized
for
development of the careers program at
Rockridge. She has built the program into
a powerful experience for our students and
continually strives to find ways to improve
the opportunities and experiences for our
students.
The
Lieutenant
Governor,
Honorable Steven L. Point gave an
inspiring speech about educators, their role
in society and the need for great teachers.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Education,
Honourable Shirley Bond also gave a
speech and congratulated the teachers. The evening designed to recognize the teachers across the province
was an event I will remember. To learn more about the teachers who were recognized, go to
http://www.gov.bc.ca/bced/. Currently, the front page of the website is about the recognition of the outstanding
teachers.
Marne Owen, Principal
2
Noon Hour Supervisors
During lunch time, we now have noon hour supervisors in the school. Up until
recently, our teaching staff were supervising during the lunch hours. We have freed
the staff from this scheduled responsibility. During the lunch break we have
supervisors in the gymnasium, one walking through the hallways, one walking
around outside, and two in the cafeteria. Additionally, the administration
supervises in a variety of places during the lunch break. Many of the staff and students have already
welcomed our noon hour supervisors in the traditional friendly and caring manner. We hope that Ms.
Denley, Mrs. Munro and Mrs. Gormican have a wonderful experience at Rockridge.
The following people are new to our school and working as noon hour supervisors:
Anne Marie Denley
Brandy Munro
Leilani Gormican
As well, we have some Student Educational Assistants, Karen St. Cyr, Michael Miles and Maria
Kehagias, who are supervising during various lunch breaks.
3
Satisfaction Surveys
The Provincial Satisfaction Survey is being administered this year to all students in grades 10 and 12
and the parents of those students. This Survey is unique in its scope, size and usefulness to schools.
It gathers information from parents, teachers and students on topics related to school environment,
safety, and achievement. The Information is used for planning in individual schools and provides a
district and provincial perspective.
We encourage parents to participate in this survey, as the results are important in identifying current
strengths, as well as determining where the school needs to focus on improvement. The surveys
contain standard questions for the Province.
This year, the survey can be completed electronically and can be accessed on the Internet at:
www.bced.gov.bc.ca/sat_survey/access.htm. There is also a link to this site on the parent section of
the Rockridge website. A password is required to sign in and complete the survey. Students in
grades 10 and 12 were given a letter to take home to parents, and on this letter is the Logon code for
completing the survey. If you did not get a code, please email Marne Owen at mowen@sd45.bc.ca in
order to get your Logon code.
The Ministry of Education produced Provincial, District and School Reports for previous years, which
can be viewed at the following site: www.bced.gov.bc.ca/reporting/surveys/sat-bas.php
Rockridge will provide computer access to parents who do not have computers (Please contact the
school if this is the case 604-981-1300). Another option for parents would be to use local public
library computers.
The e-survey site will be open from now until April 24, 2009.
GRAD 2009 EVENTS
Graduation Banquet and Dance – Saturday, May 30, 2009
Commencement Ceremony – Thursday, June 11, 2009
4
ROCKRIDGE MOVING TO A
FIXED AFTERNOON BLOCK FOR 2009-10
As many of you know, over the course of this year we have been looking at ways of enhancing
the programs we offer at Rockridge. We have had ongoing conversations with students,
parents and staff. We have begun to explore the Middle Years IB Program, and also have
begun to gauge interest in potential academy programs for our school. We will continue to have
more of these conversations in the spring.
We have continually heard about the need to allow for greater flexibility for our students,
ensuring that students in the Rockridge community do not have to leave our school for a more
flexible timetable at a different school. Starting September 2009, Rockridge will be moving to a
timetable similar to Sentinel. We will have our three morning blocks rotating and the afternoon
blocks will be fixed. There are many benefits to the students by moving to this timetable:
Rockridge will be able to offer a super achievers program. The Super Achievers Programme is
open to provincially or nationally-ranked athletes or high-calibre performing artists who are
seriously committed to their education and training. More information will be available on the
Rockridge website soon.
•
Senior students will be able to take work experience in the afternoons, allowing students
to complete some of their job placements during the day
•
Peer Tutoring 12 student will have the potential to experience working with younger
students at our elementary feeder schools in the afternoons.
•
Grade 12 students on study blocks will have the potential to work every second afternoon
(for those who have or want jobs).
•
Opportunity for more collaboration within the community
If you have a son or daughter that qualifies for the Super Achievers program please have them
make an appointment with their counsellor in order to pick up application forms and review
course programming.
5
Get ready for the first ever . . .
“ROCKRIDGE HAS TALENT” production
featuring David Hasselhoff, Sharon Osbourne, Piers Morgan and
Jerry Springer of “America’s Got Talent”
(to be played by Perry Finnbogason, Jane Goldsmith-Jones,
Evan Blacklock and Aidan Kahn).
Come experience the astonishing talent of Rockridge students
on April 7th, 2009
7:00 pm in Player’s Hall.
Tickets will be sold at lunch and at the door.
$5.00 each
Proceeds are going to “Free the Children”
You won’t want to miss this show!
6
CUBA 2010
The Rockridge Social Studies department is pleased to announce
that retired West Vancouver teacher Kit Krieger will be working with
us to organize a student tour of Cuba for April, 2010. Kit, a former
History teacher and BCTF president, has led seventeen tours to Cuba
in recent years through his tour company, Cuba Ball Tours. www.cubaballtours.com
The memorable itinerary will include tours of key Cuban historic, political and cultural
sites, a baseball game, visits to Cuban schools to make donations of school supplies,
and even a day or two at the beach. Kit’s special insight and connections in Cuba will
make this a trip one couldn’t replicate through a tour company.
The tour will be open to grade 11 and 12 students, with first priority being given to
students enrolled in History 12.
Information meeting: Tuesday, April 7th, 2009
6:00 pm - Room West 212
For more information, please contact Paula Waatainen at paulaw@sd45.bc.ca
or Craig Chubb at cchubb@sd45.bc.ca
COURSE SELECTIONS FOR 2009/2010
Effective September 2009 we will be implementing a new administrative software program called
BCeSIS. One advantage of this system is that it is web-based and, as such, affords us some
opportunities that were not available under our current system. This year students entered their
course selections on-line, at school. Students received the same level of program planning
presentations by our counsellors as in past years and were well prepared to enter their selections.
In March, grades 8, 9, 10, and 11 students were called down to one of our computer labs where
they received their login information and instructions to make their selections.
As different aspects of the BCeSIS program become active next year we are anticipating that
parents will have the ability to log in to their own page and view information such as basic
demographics, attendance, and report cards.
7
Rockridge to Compete
Against Other North Shore Schools
in Waste Reduction Contest
You Can Help Us Win!
It’s dirty work, sorting through garbage. Ask students in the Rockridge Environment Club. They know
because they have conducted three waste audits this winter, one at the school and two in the
community. Armed with information from these audits, the Environment Club is ready to launch a
zero waste campaign. It will be in full swing in April when North Shore secondary schools compete in
a Trash the Trash contest to see which one can chalk up the biggest waste reduction.
When students audited the school’s trash last December, they were surprised to find out how many
sandwiches were tossed out, some still in their wrapping. The audit also revealed large numbers of
single use dishes. The Club has plans to mobilize the whole student population to reduce the
organics by packing Zero Waste Lunches. Plans are also underway to place recycling bins for
plastics in each classroom (drink containers have been recycled for some time at Rockridge).
Rockridge Environment Club Students conducted a waste audit at the Gleneagles Community Centre
in February under the supervision of Tamara Shulman who is the Education and Outreach Assistant
for the District of West Vancouver’s Engineering Department.
8
Rockridge Athletics
Starting up the Spring Season at
Rockridge!
Congratulations to all the Spring Athletes who will be playing for Rockridge in
the 2009 season. Games are already underway and Rockridge is demonstrating
its talent all over the Northshore. Thank you to all the fabulous coaches and
parents who volunteer their time. None of this would be possible without you.
This season we are offering the following teams:
Teams
Coaches
Jr Boys Rugby
Sr Boys Rugby
Jr Girls Soccer
Sr Girls Soccer
Track and Field
Jr Tennis
Sr Tennis
Ultimate
Golf
Mountain Biking
D. Henning
P. Zambon
F. Morris, K. Spearman
L. Plunkett, I. Armstrong
J. Hawkins, P. Busch, S. Maquignaz, L. Mingay
T. Harding, A. Kump
D. Rinfret, C. Neacs
D. Dickinson, M. Trask, M. Branco
T. Williams, K. Kim
L. Harrison, D. Lambie
Unless instructed otherwise by your coaches, all
athletes are requested to pay their fees and fill out
their forms on line.
Instructions can be found on the Rockridge Athletics
webpage:
http://www.sd45.bc.ca/rockridge/departments/athletics/index.html
Or go directly to the following link:
http://www.karelo.com/register.php?BID=355&BT=10#Ev6548
Please print out the medical form and return it to
your coach ASAP.
9
You can check your game schedule on Esport at the
following link:
http://www.esportsdesk.com/leagues/pick_league.cfm?clientID=8&leagueID=0
Make sure you check the schedule daily for field
closures and changes.
Go Ravens!
ROCKRIDGE STUDENTS WIN PROVINCIAL HOCKEY
CHAMPIONSHIP!
Photo from left to right: Jake Charles, Spencer Smyl and Mitchell Bell
West Vancouver’s Hollyburn Huskies Midget
hockey team won the Tier 1 (AAA) Provincial
Championship on Wednesday, March 18th in
Prince George, defeating Kelowna 8-2 in the
final.
Hollyburn started the tournament with a 4-2
loss against Kelowna but quickly improved
their record with wins over Prince George,
Seafair, Victoria and Semiahmoo, earning
them a rematch with Kelowna in the final.
Hollyburn had 30 goals for and 14 goals
against in the tournament. Hollyburn
Huskies received a solid effort from the
whole team, from goaltending all the way to
special team play.
Spencer Smyl, the team captain, played
strong defensively for Hollyburn. Jake
Charles led the team in scoring with 10 goals
and 5 assists in 6 games. Mitchell Bell
played solid two-way hockey, scoring 3 goals
and 3 assists in the 6 games.
In addition to winning the Championship, the Huskies were also awarded the Fair Play Award. In presenting
the award, BCAHA District Director Cathy Mason commented, “In all my years in hockey I have never seen a
Midget Team that has shown self-discipline with such perfection.”
.
Elliot Kagna, Team Manager
10
UPCOMING EVENTS
Thursday, April 16: Sounds of Spring Concert – Player’s Hall – 6:30 pm – All Rockridge Concert Bands
Wednesday, May 13: Kiwanis Jazz Band Festival (Field Trip for all Rockridge Jazz Band students)
Wednesday May 20: Kiwanis Concert Band Festival (Field Trip for all Grade 8 Concert Band Students)
Thursday, May 21: Kiwanis Concert Band Festival (Field Trip for all Grade 9 – 12
Concert Band Students)
Thursday, June 4: One Final Note Concert – Player’s Hall – 6:30 pm – All
Rockridge Performing Groups
Saturday, June 6: Community Day Parade and Concert
Thursday, June 11: Commencement Ceremony
CONGRATULATIONS
Congratulations to the Rockridge Junior Jazz Band students for winning the invitation to Musicfest
Canada National Music Festival 2009 in Toronto and 2010 in Ottawa. Way to go!
ROCKRIDGE MUSIC DEPARTMENT WEB SITE
Bookmark and periodically visit the Rockridge Music Department web site for current information and
upcoming events for Rockridge musicians. http://rockridgemusicdepartment.googlepages.com
11
Laura Mingay’s Social Studies 8 Blocks G and H classes did a fantastic job of putting on their very
own medieval fair. The fair marked the end of learning about various artisans and their contributions
to medieval life and the students went above and beyond to make the fair come to life in their
classroom.
In addition to stone carvers, blacksmiths and jewellers there were weavers, brew masters (albeit with
a slightly modified beverage), tailors, bakers, spice sellers and musicians, to name just a few.
Fresh baked bread and cheese coaxed in a couple of curious grade 12 students and teachers who
stuck around to sample the wares. Well done grade 8’s!
12
SCIENCE FIELD TRIP TO ORLANDO, FORIDA
APRIL 2010!
http://www.pacific-sea.com/
Pacific Student Educational Adventures
Rockridge Science Department is seeking to determine the level of interest for an educational science field
trip to Orlando, Florida. This week-long trip will take place tentatively in April 2010. This trip is an excellent
opportunity for students to gain hands-on, practical experiences in science-based sessions that support the
B.C. science curriculum. Each day will focus on a different branch of science, and will include an education
program followed by free time to explore and enjoy the facilities of that venue. The exact itinerary is yet to
be decided, but activities will be selected from the following:
Marine Sciences at Sea World, Technology at Epcot, Biology at Disney’s Animal Kingdom,
Physics at Disney’s Magic Kingdom, Motion picture arts and sciences at Disney’s MGM Studios,
Roller Coaster physics and engineering at Islands of Adventure, Technology at Universal Studios Florida,
Aerospace Science at Kennedy Space Center (NASA)
An exact cost is difficult to predict at this early stage as there are many factors affecting the final price such
as the cost of air travel and the value of the Canadian dollar. However, every effort will be made to secure
the best adventure for the lowest cost, estimated at this time to be $1850 USD for an all-inclusive package.
This price includes all of the following:
return air, Seattle to Orlando, bus transfers from Rockridge to Seattle, return, deluxe trip cancellation,
insurance and unlimited extended medical insurance while in the USA, all transfers in Orlando via chartered
air-conditioned coach, accommodation in an all-suite hotel including daily hot buffet breakfast, water, juice
and snacks in hotel rooms, admission to all parks on the itinerary, all educational programs selected by the
head teacher, souvenir DVD of all activities experienced on the trip, replacement teachers for days of
instruction missed by teacher-chaperones. Students will need to provide their own money for any lunches
or dinners not included on the itinerary, and for snacks and any souvenirs or personal purchases.
Student eligibility for this program requires meeting the following criteria:
•
•
•
•
A demonstrated interest and ability in their science classes, including a “satisfactory” letter grade
Satisfactory overall academic progress in all subjects as shown on this year’s report cards, and
continuing up to the date of travel
Excellent school citizenship, a demonstrated responsible and co-operative attitude in all classes, and
a good overall school attendance record
Approval from the school board, school administration and sponsor-teacher chaperones
If you are interested in being considered for inclusion in our 2010 Orlando EDventure, please complete
obtain an application form and the extended field trip form from your science teacher and return them to
Mrs. Towers, Mr. Trask or Ms. Spearman no later than April 10.
13
Foods Studies … It’s a course for Life!
Food Studies offers more than just the practical skills of cooking…
Students who take Food Studies will:
- Describe factors that influence personal food choices
- Evaluate commercial food products
- Identify the influence of food marketing practices
- Determine environmental and health issues related to consumption and production of food
- Modify recipes to improve their nutritional value
- Critique the use of additives and enrichments, pesticides and nutrition and health statements of
foods
And so much more.
14
The Benefits of Foods Studies Classes are that:
- Students gain hands-on-skills that can change their lives and the lives of others around them
- Students will use what they learn every day of their lives
- Students have the opportunity to discover their own abilities, and develop a curiosity to learn more.
- Students develop positive self esteem, creativity, time management skills and global awareness
- Foods Studies classes can influence career choices such as:
Food stylist, health inspector, chef, caterer, dietitian, food writer or critic, food scientist, educator,
nutritionist
Peggy MacAulay
Food Studies Teacher
15
Nutrition – Make Healthy Food choices
Here are a few tips on making healthful food choices for you and your entire
family.
Fats, Oils, and Sweets
Know and limit your fats. Minimize margarine, butter, lard, shortening and
foods that contain them. Use sodium, trans fats, and saturated fats very
sparingly. Unsaturated oils, such as olive or sunflower, should be used. Cut
back on beverages and foods with added sugars. Choose and prepare foods with
little or no salt.
Meat, Poultry, Fish, Eggs, Dry Beans and Nuts
Choose lean meats and poultry without skin and prepare them without added
saturated and trans fats. Eat at least two servings of fish a week. Choose more fish,
beans, peas, nuts and seeds.
Milk, Cheese, Yogurt and Dairy Products
Choose low fat varieties such as skim milk, low-fat buttermilk,
reduced fat yogurt and cheeses. Tofu and soy are excellent choices.
Fruits
Use a variety of fruits such as fresh, frozen, and dried.
Fruits are low in fat, contain fiber, minerals and vitamins. They also
help curb the sweet tooth!
Vegetables
Choose more dark leafy- green vegetables like broccoli and spinach. Choose sweet
potatoes and carrots and vegetables in the orange group. Choose peas, and dry
beans such as lentils and kidneys and pinto beans.
Grains
Choose whole grain cereals, breads, crackers, rice or pasta.
Consume a minimum of three ounces each day.
Whole grains are loaded with complex carbohydrates and fiber.
16
INTERACT CLUB
February was a huge month for the Rockridge Interact Club. Those who took part in Rockridge’s
World Food Simulation began pledging since the end of January, for the Spread The Net
Foundation. The Spread The Net Foundation is a charity organization devoted to supplying
families of third world African countries with mosquito nets, to prevent the spread of malaria. The
World Food Simulation is a healthy alternative to Rockridge’s traditional 24 Hour Famine. Opposed
to starving themselves, Rockridge students stopped eating at 8:00 a.m., and then at 6:00 pm they
came up to the school for a meal that was assigned to them. Each meal represented a third world
population in the world. Many students only had a cup of rice, whereas others received rice, milk,
fruit and a bowl of chili.
A special thank you to the parents who helped prepare and serve the food that evening: Tracy
Dobell, Judith Fisher, Pat Taylor, Janis Boyd, Liz Carson, Marie Kirkwood and Judith Weymark.
Perry Finnbogason - Grade 10
West Vancouver Rotary Club supports Rockridge School
17
This year the grade 10’s at Rockridge Secondary were given the opportunity to be blown
away through a performance called Cranked. The performance caught everybody’s attention
from the very beginning, captivating the audience throughout the performance. While having
a good time watching it, we also learned a valuable lesson; we were shown what drugs can
do to you and what path they can lead you down. It was recognizable that the show was not
there to scare us but to raise our awareness on the facts, and that’s just what it did. After the
performance, only good things were said of what people thought of it. Cranked was a great
way to help teens to stay clear of making the wrong choice. It showed us that you may just
say “what the hey, I’ll just do it just this once,” but just that once can get you addicted and
take you down the wrong path from there. The fact that the show was put into somewhat of a
rap, with a story line and related to the life of a teen helped to put it into perspective and
better relate to the students, as an audience. For the future student’s Cranked would be a
great show to bring back to Rockridge, it was something that everyone greatly enjoyed!
Amanda Baumgartner – Grade 10
On Thursday, February 26, 2009, Odd Squad productions came to present to Rockridge. The entire school
was in attendance; grades eight to twelve were seated in the gymnasium to watch this production. The
presentation revolved around drug usage and crime in the downtown east side. Some of the officers involved
in the Odd Squad organization have spent as many as two decades patrolling the same few blocks of this part
of town. Consequently, they personally know most of the homeless people and drug users that fill these
streets. The lives and addictions of these people upset the officers so much that they decided to make a
movie about this poverty-stricken part of Canada called ‘Through a Blue Lens’. This movie followed the lives of
some of the drug users in this area. They interviewed them and showed the impact that drugs had caused on
their lives. Almost a thousand pairs of wide, keen eyes viewed this movie in the Odd Squad presentation,
witnessing the horrible effects of drugs. Once the movie was over, the officers also gave an informative
PowerPoint presentation enhancing students’ knowledge different drugs. This presentation was an effective
way of illustrating to Rockridge students the effects of using drugs by showing them real-life cases. Many
thanks go out to the Odd Squad!
Lauren Telford – Grade 10
18
On February 26th the Rockridge Law 12 class traveled to the Vancouver Law Courts to engage in two
simulated criminal trials. The students for several weeks prior to the trials had all assumed the roles of various
courtroom participants, and had been preparing for the event. The witnesses for both crown and defence
counsel worked cooperatively with their respective attorney teams to prepare their cases.
The actual trials were an excellent exhibition of the students’ abilities to take what they had learned in class
and then apply that knowledge to real (or near real) situations. The students who played the roles of the
various witnesses had learned their stories so well that one could believe that they had actually experienced
the events themselves. The attorneys gave powerful opening and closing speeches. Similarly, the questioning
and cross-examination of witnesses brought about some truly surprising and exciting moments. A jury heard
each of the trials, and a substantial amount of time was spent deliberating. Ultimately, a unanimous and
identical verdict of not guilty was returned for each of the cases.
Dave Dickinson,Teacher
19
PROVINCIAL EXAMINATIONS - (GRADES 10, 11, and 12)
All dates, times, policies and procedures for provincial exams are mandated by the Ministry
of Education. Non-attendance or arriving more than 30 minutes beyond the start time
requires the student to sit that exam during the August Provincial Exam period.
FINAL EXAM SCHEDULE – MAY / JUNE 2009
Date
May 4 to 7
May 6
May 7
May 13
May 19
May 19 to 26
May 25 to 29
June 3 and 4
June 3 to 9
June 4 to 9
June 5
June 8 to 10
June 8 and 9
June 10 and 11
June 10 and 11
June 11
Exam
Time
English/Communications Composition 8 to 11
in class rotation
AP Calculus 12
8:00
APELC 12
8:00
Biology Pre AP 11 - Part 1
In class rotation
Biology Pre AP 11 - Part 2
In class rotation
Math 12 - school-based exam
in class rotation
Languages 8 - 12 - Speaking Exam
In class rotation
Languages 8 - 12 – Listening Exam
In class rotation
Calculus 12
In class rotation
Math 8 and 9
in class rotation
Japanese 11 and Intro Japanese 11
In class rotation A/B
Languages 8 - 12 – Written Exam
In class rotation
Earth Science 11
In class rotation C/G
Social Studies 10
In class rotation
Science 9
In class rotation
English 11 and English 11 AP
8:30 Blocks B/C
Communications 11
8:30 Blocks B/C
Principles of Math 11 / Math Pre AP11
11:40 Blocks D/A
Essentials of Math 11
11:40 Blocks D/A
June 12
Biology 11
1:00
June 15
Physics 11
9:00
June 15
Biology 12 - school-based exam
1:00
June 16
Chemistry 11
9:00
Chemistry 12 – school based exam
1:00
June 17
English 10
9:00
History 12
9:00
Civic Studies 11
1:00
English 12
1:00
June 18
Physics 12
9:00
Communications 12
1:00
Geology 12
1:00
June 19
Social Studies 11
9:00
English Literature 12
9:00
Principles of Math 12
1:00
June 22
Principles of Math 10
9:00
Essentials of Math 10
9:00
Biology 12
1:00
June 23
Geography 12
9:00
Science 10
9:00
Chemistry 12
1:00
June 24
French 12 and Mandarin 12
1:00
June 25
Japanese 12
9:00
Spanish 12
9:00
Note: All exams are subject to change. (Please confirm with your classroom teachers). BOLD = Provincial or AP Exams
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COUNSELLING UPDATE – APRIL 2009
Counselling WEBSITE http://www.sd45.bc.ca/rockridge
Go to blue square for “Counsellors’ Page”
Your online connection to Course Booklet, Graduation Requirements, Post-Secondary
Program/Admissions Criteria, Financial Aid & Scholarships, Career Planning, Grad Transitions, etc.
Course Selections
Course Selections are now complete! Students submitted their courses via web site, with the
guidance of school counsellors, at www.bcesis.isw-bc.ca/pa
Students can access this site any time to view courses, and will be given one more opportunity to
request changes this spring. The timetable is now being built. Students who request changes are not
guaranteed their request, and changes are only possible where space allows.
Post Secondary Information
Are you planning to go to any post secondary school in Canada? You MUST have your grade 12 marks
authorized to be sent to all post secondary schools in Canada, including BC! You MUST do this for
your final acceptance, otherwise your final marks will NOT be sent in July!!
Please go to the following web site:
www.bced.gov.bc.ca/exams
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Go to “Student Secure Web” icon
Log on with PEN (provincial education number)
Create an Account (You do not need to give a school email!)
Click on “Post Secondary Institution Selections”
Click on “Select PSI’s”
Check off the institutions that you want your marks to be sent.
Click on “Display of BC Electronic PSI’s” to see if your chosen school is listed. If your school does
NOT show up in section 1, try section 2 (Non-Electronic), or section 3 (for Alberta, and other
provinces – be sure to filter by Canada.
Be sure to check off the box at the bottom of the next page
Print off “Current PSI Selections” list for future reference, AND print a copy to bring in to your
counsellor! (please write your name on this page).
These steps were given in an attachment with the gr. 12 2nd term report card, which was distributed on
April 3rd.
2. Apply for residence and housing as soon as possible! Although some schools will consider you
automatically,
others require applications.
Scholarships
For all outside scholarships, please check out:
www.bcawardsonline.sd61bc.ca
www.scholarshipscanada.com
www.studentawards.com
For all internal scholarships (within Rockridge), please see the Rockridge web site (counsellor’s page –
scholarships) to see the list of awards and the criteria.
In order to be eligible for these Rockridge Scholarships, students must:
• Have excellent attendance
• Document school service (in the library)
• Be in good standing
• Maintain registration in 6 percentage-earning courses until June
Please submit your Scholarship Application form to the counselling office by April 15th, as well as have
your scholarship resume on file in the careers office, to be considered for these various awards. The
application forms were distributed in English classes in the first week of April, and the scholarship
resume was part of the Graduation Transitions requirement.
District Dogwood Awards are offered to students in the areas of Fine Arts, Applied Skills, Languages or
Physical Activity. This includes Theatre, Music, Art, Fashion, Foods, Tech Ed, Graphic Arts, Computer
Tech, and Athletics. These application forms can be found in the counselling office, and are due May 1st.
Provincial Exams
If you are taking a course outside of Rockridge, or if you wish to rewrite a provincial exam, please
see your counsellor to register for the June exam sitting.
To write, or not to write? Grade 12 students have the option of writing all provincial exams, except
for English 12/Communications 12 which is required for graduation. All post-secondary schools in
Canada are no longer requiring grade 12 provincial exams to be written. However, there still are reasons
to write:
• If a student writes 3 or more provincial exams, including English, and receives an 86% or higher on
all 3 exams, that student earns $1000 provincial scholarship.
• Most Post Secondary schools will only take the higher mark – if the exam improves the final mark,
that blended mark will be considered – if the exam mark is lower than the class mark, the class mark
will be used.
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Grade 10 and 11 students: do not book summer plans until you consider the final Provincial Exam
schedule! If you miss these exams, you must write them in August:
• English 10 – Wed. June 17th , 9 a.m.
• Civics 11 – Wed. June 17th, 1 p.m.
• Socials 11 – Fri. June 19, 9 a.m.
• Principles/Essentials of Math 10 – Mon. June 22, 9 a.m.
• Science 10 – Tues. June 23, 9 a.m.
Summer School
Registration for West Vancouver School District Summer Learning will start on Monday May 4th.
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Full credit courses: English 10/11, Socials 10/11, Physics 11, Bio 12, Math 11/12, Planning 10.
Upgrade/Preview courses: English 8/9/10/11, Math 8/9/10/11, Science 8/9/10, Socials 8/9/10/11.
Are You Stressed Out About Exams?!
Come to a couple of lunch-time test anxiety sessions, offered in room W110. Learn how to cope with
studying as well as writing exams without stressing too much. Free cookies and juice!
When?
Tuesday and Wednesday May 19th and 20th at lunch
Where?
W 110
Who?
Any Rockridge student, grades 8 - 12
From March 9th to March 13th, I participated in the Career Awareness
Workshop at BCIT. The workshop’s purpose was to learn and understand the
field of biotechnology. The workshop was made up of lectures and labs.
Instructors of the program changed daily and this allowed us to learn the
topic and different perspectives. The most interesting lab that I remember is
one in which we obtained our cheek cells in order to study our DNA. A cup
of salty solution was given to each student; we poured it in our mouths and
gargled with it so our cheek cells can be obtained. We spit out the solution
and put it in the centrifuge. After a waiting period, the cells were collected
from the bottom of the test tube. From these cells, we were able to extract
our DNA. We wore lab coats and globes for the whole period of the lab; we
also needed to wash our hands and tables constantly to make sure that our
cells and mediums were not contaminated. It was interesting to work with the
specific equipment that is used in the lab. I gained an incredibly valuable
experience in the field of biotechnology through this fascinating workshop. It
has been a wonderful opportunity to explore my interest in this field and it
has enabled me to visualize my future career more clearly.
By Michelle Joo
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PAID WORK AND WORK EXPERIENCE COURSES
Mrs. Atwood has been visiting Planning 10 and English 11 courses to explain the
new ministry guidelines for volunteer and paid work. Students registering in Work
Experience courses can now receive credit for paid work that follows their career
path and benefits them for post secondary applications. Students interested in
pursuing a university degree in business for example could count paid work in a
bank or
accounting firm. The procedures for course credit must be followed
before any paid work can be counted. The student must first be
registered in the course, met with their Work Experience teacher and
created a training plan and employment contract, then the employer
must agree to be part of the program.
Students would be responsible for bringing in their paycheque
and employee evaluations on a regular basis and would have a
study block during the school day. The study block can be used to catch up on
homework or in the afternoon block the student can go to their work place.
It is imperative that students wanting to work over the summer months must have a
school contract in place and followed the course procedures in May or June.
International students must be fluent in spoken and written English and have job
placements in our local community.
We encourage students to have a balance of volunteer and paid work experiences
for broad based university and scholarship applications. Job shadowing in
professions such as medicine and law are examples of unpaid work
experience placements. Often students begin retail or hospitality jobs
as volunteers and then are hired for paid work later in their work
placements.
Work Experience course hours can also be used for the Graduation
Transition course requirement of 30 hours. For more information contact
the Career Department at (604) 981-1300 between the hours of 10:00 and 4:00.
Susan Atwood,
Career and Graduation Transition Coordinator
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ROCKRIDGE SECONDARY SCHOOL
CALENDAR 2009-2010
Please note: Some dates are not yet set or are subject to change. Watch for updates in the newsletters.
August
Monday, 31
DISTRICT PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY
September
Tuesday, 1
Wednesday, 2
Tuesday, 22
Wednesday, 23
Monday, 7
School Opens (8:30 am – 11:10 am) – Term 1 Begins
Regular Block Rotation Begins – ABCD
Meet the Teacher Night
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY – School not in Session
LABOUR DAY HOLIDAY – School not in Session
Monday,12
Friday, 23
THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY – School not in Session
PROVINCIAL PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY – (No Students)
October
November
Tuesday, 10
Wednesday, 11
Wednesday, 25
Remembrance Day Assembly – 10:00 am
REMEMBRANCE DAY HOLIDAY – School not in Session
Start of Term 2
December
Friday, 18
Saturday, 19 – Sunday, 3
Last day before Winter Vacation
WINTER VACATION – School not in Session
January
Monday, 4
Thursday, 21
Friday, 22
February
Friday, 12
Saturday, 13 – Sunday, 28
School re-opens for 2010
Parent /Teacher Interview Night
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY – School not in Session
Last school day Prior to Olympic Break
SPRING BREAK (District Wide) – School not in Session
March
Monday, 1
Wednesday, 10
Friday, 19
School re-opens after Spring Break
Start of Term 3
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY – School not in Session
Friday, 2 – Sunday, 11
Monday, 12
EXTENDED EASTER HOLIDAY – School not in Session
School re-opens
Friday, 21
Monday, 24
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY – School not in Session
VICTORIA DAY HOLIDAY – School not in Session
Wednesday, 30
SCHOOL YEAR ENDS / ADMIN DAY
April
May
June
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Rockridge Secondary Parent Advisory Council Chairs’ Report
APRIL 2009
February 17 PAC meeting highlights:
Guest speaker, Kerrie Watt: Kerrie is a youth addictions practitioner with the Jump Start Program at
Vancouver Coastal Health. She is now working four days a week with the West Van school district and
municipality as a prevention consultant. Thank you to Kerrie for taking the time to talk to us about her role.
The grade 8/9 prevention curriculum is being evaluated. Grade 10 has a focused curriculum. Grades 11 and 12
have pull-out sessions.
IB Middle Years Program: discussions for implementing this program at Rockridge are ongoing. One option is
to start with a Grade 8 cohort group beginning in September 2010. The IB “MYP” is a philosophy of teaching,
which differs from the senior years IB diploma, which gives university credit.
Next PAC meeting: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 8:45 a.m.
Cyclebetes 24-hour Spin-a-thon: students Tara Russell and Francesca McDowell attended the PAC meeting to
tell us about this fundraising event in support of juvenile diabetes. Last year the students raised $80,000, and
this year their goal is $150,000! Parent teams are welcome. If you’d like to be part of a parent cycling team
and cycle for an hour or two between 4:00 p.m. April 3 and 4:00 p.m. April 4 to help this worthy cause, email
us at rockridgepac04@hotmail.com. The students are also looking for sponsors. For more information, go to:
www.cyclebetes.com and www.cyclebetes.blogspot.com
“Winter Jazz” Scholarship fundraiser: Thank you to Jan Moger, for coordinating this year’s scholarship
fundraiser. And thank you the following parents who have already hosted their parties: Darlene Harrison,
Cynthia Ott, Linda MacDonald, Marcie Kurtz-Ponak and Liz Irving. Finally, thank you to all the generous donors
as well. We will report on the final amount raised in the next newsletter.
Wish List Items: take a look at, or ask your kids about, the items recently purchased for the school with funds
raised by parents: high definition camcorder, laptop cart (15 more laptops), weight room equipment, spin
bikes, scientific calculators, microscopes, and new microwaves for the cafeteria.
District forums: Understanding Adolescence: The Incredible Journey
The second event, regarding eating disorders, was held on February 24. Mark your calendars for the next two:
- Tuesday, April 7: How to Talk to your Preteens and Teens about Anything. To register, go to:
http://www.sd45.bc.ca/news/reg-pty.php
- Tuesday, May 5: Reducing Risk-Taking Behaviour
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For more information about the District’s series of community forums on Understanding Adolescence: The Incredible
Journey, please visit the SD45 website at: http://www.sd45.bc.ca/news/parenting-transition-years.html
HELP (still) NEEDED:
Vice chair(s): yes, this position is (unbelievably) still open! The vice-chair (or co-chairs) would merely shadow
the chairs this year, to be ready to take over as chair (or co-chairs) in 2009/10. Contact Terry (926 4541) or Bev
(921 9876), or email us at rockridgepac04@hotmail.com. It’s a lot easier to do this job at high school than at
elementary school, and it’s also easier to work as a team.
Vancouver 2010 Homestay Program:
VANOC is looking for homestay hosts on the North Shore for 2010 volunteers. You would provide: a private
bedroom, access to a bathroom, food available for breakfast, daily assistance to get to nearest public
transportation, all for 10 to 20 days between January 24 and February 28, 2010. There is an incentive program:
hosts are eligible to receive Olympic event tickets, varying with the number of guests they have and the
number of nights accommodation they provide. The deadline for being accepted into the program under
Phase 1 is June 1, 2009. The deadline for Phase 2 is September 30, 2009. For more details, go to:
www.vancouver2010.com/homestay or or e-mail homestay@vancouver2010.co
COMMUNITY
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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