Post by markscrivens on Jul 2, 2014 13:57:56 GMT -5
Connaught Transition Update
Hello future Connaught Parents
We met with Principal Hannah in early June and then had a follow up call early this week. As a result, I can offer this by way of an update to some of the main transition issues.
Transportation/Safety Issues
We have communicated to the Board ongoing concerns about transportation and safety issues, especially with respect to crossing Parkdale at all points. There is some respite from this issue as we have been informed by the OSTA (the Transportation Authority) that there will be bussing for all students in the first year. However, there is not yet a long term solution for some of the transportation safety concerns. Susan Macdonald has asked that we keep her informed of developments in this area. In the coming year we will have to continue to lobby the OSTA about ensuring that there is a safe and practical route to and from the school for all students.
Yard issues
Principal Hannah has asked parents whether they would be interested in helping to improve the school grounds, including clean up and minor landscaping of the front of the school, and improvements to the playground. There is currently no playground/yard committee at the Connaught School Council, and current Council members indicate that they would be happy to see one established. I indicated that there would likely be volunteers willing to take this on in the fall.
Class Configurations
Principal Hannah has provided us with an update on the grade configuration that is expected to be in place next year:
Two SK classes
One Grade 1
One Grade 1-2 split class
One Grade 2-3 split class
One Grade 3 class
One Grade 4 class
Staffing
Aside from the new EFI teachers to for each of these classes, there has been new hiring of early childhood education staff, and as a result there are now 10 early childhood education staff at Connaught.
Resources
French instructional coaches form the OCDSB identified $21,000 in resources, including $5,000 for the library. Additionally technology such as projectors and additional computers for the mobile computer lab have been added. More spending will occur after meetings with staff in the fall.
Other stuff
Connaught is introducing a House system to, among other things, foster a sense of community between the grades. Eight houses, each with its own colour, hero, and “character trait”
Principal Hanna will be available to address individual concerns/ issues in the last week of August.
Hello future Connaught Parents
We met with Principal Hannah in early June and then had a follow up call early this week. As a result, I can offer this by way of an update to some of the main transition issues.
Transportation/Safety Issues
We have communicated to the Board ongoing concerns about transportation and safety issues, especially with respect to crossing Parkdale at all points. There is some respite from this issue as we have been informed by the OSTA (the Transportation Authority) that there will be bussing for all students in the first year. However, there is not yet a long term solution for some of the transportation safety concerns. Susan Macdonald has asked that we keep her informed of developments in this area. In the coming year we will have to continue to lobby the OSTA about ensuring that there is a safe and practical route to and from the school for all students.
Yard issues
Principal Hannah has asked parents whether they would be interested in helping to improve the school grounds, including clean up and minor landscaping of the front of the school, and improvements to the playground. There is currently no playground/yard committee at the Connaught School Council, and current Council members indicate that they would be happy to see one established. I indicated that there would likely be volunteers willing to take this on in the fall.
Class Configurations
Principal Hannah has provided us with an update on the grade configuration that is expected to be in place next year:
Two SK classes
One Grade 1
One Grade 1-2 split class
One Grade 2-3 split class
One Grade 3 class
One Grade 4 class
Staffing
Aside from the new EFI teachers to for each of these classes, there has been new hiring of early childhood education staff, and as a result there are now 10 early childhood education staff at Connaught.
Resources
French instructional coaches form the OCDSB identified $21,000 in resources, including $5,000 for the library. Additionally technology such as projectors and additional computers for the mobile computer lab have been added. More spending will occur after meetings with staff in the fall.
Other stuff
Connaught is introducing a House system to, among other things, foster a sense of community between the grades. Eight houses, each with its own colour, hero, and “character trait”
Principal Hanna will be available to address individual concerns/ issues in the last week of August.