November 2016

Principal: Jennifer Robinson Vice-Principal: Joseph Pileggi Vice-Principal: Miranda Murphy Office Manager: Marinka Hilton Office Assistant: Kavita Mahadeo Office Assistant: Helena Costa Guidance Counselor: Navroop Chandi Superintendent: Mrs. P. Daws (905-451-2862) Ext. 4230 Trustee: Mr. Harkirat Singh: (647) 209-8000

Principal’s Message Greetings Beryl Ford Families,

October has been a very successful month at Beryl Ford Public School! Our Student

Leadership Program has begun after students in Grades 5-8 applied for, and obtained, a variety

of leadership positions including; Twitter Club, School Reporters, Playground Activity Leaders,

Stage and Sound Crew, Specialty Lunch Helpers, School DJs, Technology Crew, Peer

Mediators, Sports Coaches, among many other positions. We are looking forward to seeing

students demonstrate their exceptional leadership skills and the 7 Habits as they contribute to

our school community in their new positions. Our School Reporter Team, led by Mrs.

Mahadeo, Ms. Schiffman and myself, have written their first news articles, which are included

on page 4 of this newsletter. Be sure to watch for their articles throughout the school year.

We have been keeping our students active and engaged through our extra-curricular program

this month. A variety of activities were offered to our students including; intramurals for

Grades 3-5 students, Robotics Club, Cross Country, Intermediate Choir and Soccer. We know

the students are looking forward to the various other activities that will be offered in the months

to come.

It was wonderful to meet many of our Junior Kindergarten parents during the last week of

October when they visited their childrens’ classrooms for our JK observations. Picture Days

were also very successful and students will have an opportunity for photo retakes on November

16th

if need be.

During the first two weeks of November our Me to We student action team will be active in

raising funds for the United Way of Peel Region. Donations received will benefit families in

our own community and we are hoping to #InspirePossibility! Please follow our

@BerylFordPS Twitter account as we campaign. During the month of November, we will also

recognize Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week and Movember.

Principal’s Message…cont’d….

During the time period from November 8th

to 10th

our Grade 4 students will complete the

Canadian Cognitive Abilities Test (CCAT). Grade 4 parents are encouraged to review the letter

sent by Mr. Pileggi pertaining to the testing. Though it seems early, planning for secondary

school is well underway for our Grade 8 students. Grade 8 students will be working on course

selection for Grade 9 this month and parents are invited to contact their child’s teacher, our

guidance counsellor, Mr. Chandi, or our intermediate support teacher, Mrs. Millones-Solorzano,

if they have any questions. We also hope to see many of our grade 7 & 8 parents at our

Castlebrooke S.S/Lincoln Alexander S.S information night on November 10th

at 6:00 pm.

Staff and students will commemorate Remembrance Day on November 11th

this year with a

school wide moment of silence at 10:00 a.m. and an assembly for our Grades 4-8 students

beginning at 11:20 a.m. Parents are welcome to join us for this assembly at which we will

recognize the diverse identities of those who have served our country.

Classroom programs are well underway as we prepare for Progress Report Cards which will be

sent home with Grade 1-8 students on November 11th

. We are looking forward to meeting with

our parents on November 17th

and 18th

during our Reporting to Parent’s interviews. Please look

for communication in your child’s backpack on October 28th

about how to arrange an interview

with your child’s teacher.

We will be celebrating Peel Custodial and Maintenance Worker’s Day on November 25th

, so

please be sure to say a huge “thank-you” if you see our custodians. They do a fabulous job of

keeping our school clean and safe every day.

Our School Council will meet on Thursday, November 3rd

at 6:00 p.m. Please join us if you can.

Looking forward to another wonderful month,

Ms. Robinson

Principal

November Sunday

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1

Me to We Giving Day Campaign begins (ends Nov.11) Day 3

2 SUB DAY

Day 4

3 PIZZA DAY

6:00 pm School Council Meeting Day 5

4

Day 1

5

6

7 Day 2

8 Grade 4 CCAT Testing Day 3

9 SUB DAY

Grade 4 CCAT Testing Day 4

10 PIZZA

DAY Grade 4 CCAT Testing 6 pm- Castlebrooke SS/ Lincoln Alexander Info Night at BFPS Day 5

11Remembrance

Day 11:20- Gr. 4-8 Assembly Report Cards Sent Home (Gr. 1-8) Day 1

12

13

14

Day 2

15 Day 3

16 SUB DAY

Picture Re-take

Day Day 4

17 PIZZA DAY

Reporting to Parent’s Evening Day 5

18 Reporting to Parents Day No School For Students

19

20 21 Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week Day 1

22 Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week Day 2

23 SUB DAY

Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week Day 3

24 PIZZA DAY

Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week Day 4

25 SPIRIT DAY:

Moustache or Headband Day

Bullying Awareness & Prevention Week Peel Custodial & Maintenance Workers Day Day 5

26

27 28

K-8 Teacher Collaborative Inquiries Day 1

29

K-8 Teacher Collaborative Inquiries Day 2

30 SUB DAY K-8 Teacher Collaborative Inquiries Day 3

From our Beryl Ford School Reporters….

Me to We at We Day

Student Reporter – Visha (8D) On Wednesday, October 19th, the Me to We Committee took a trip to the Air Canada Centre to attend We Day. At We Day, they learned about the places where they can demonstrate caring and concern for others, such as homes, schools, and communities. “I wanted to go to We Day because I knew all the other people who went were committed to changing the world.” said Mithusha, an enthusiastic student participant. Students also learned

about the #make150count project. To celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary, the Royal Bank of Canada is providing enthusiastic and caring youth with $150, and challenging them to use the money to make Canada a better place. The teens in attendance were told to be creative, and think about the needs of others before spending, but were not given additional instructions. Many teens have used the money with WE in mind, for example one teen used $150 to buy flowers and give them to people in the community, making their day happier. Celebrities in attendance included Lilly Singh, Connor Franta, Jason Derulo and Gord Downie.

_________________________________________________________________________ Beryl Ford’s Very First Lego League

Student Reporter – Ishman (8F) Beryl Ford will be participating in the local First Lego League (FLL) Competition in just a few weeks, and the excitement in contagious! “I think it’s a great opportunity for students to use and gain knowledge of technology and engineering.” said Ms. Andersen, the staff sponsor and leader of the Lego Robotics Club (LRC) at Beryl Ford. The LRC challenges students to create and program robots using Lego and special software. Currently, members of the two junior and two senior teams are preparing for their upcoming

competition, and the students are excited. “It’s fun, interesting and we’re really hyped for the competition even though it’s all new to us.” said one enthusiastic LRC member. Watch out primary students…our primary lego league is coming soon!

__________________________________________________________________________ Beryl Ford Leadership Program Student Reporter – Shristi (7C)

This year, the staff at Beryl Ford have come up with a very educational and exciting program for students between grades 5 - 8, the Beryl Ford Leadership Program. Students are encouraged to take advantage of leadership opportunities in their area of interest. Some of the many jobs students are taking part in include Assembly Greeters, Green Screen Team, School Reporters, and Stage Crew, among many others. In this program, students are encouraged to cultivate the 7 Habits and the Peel Character Traits. This program very much helps the Beryl Ford Community because younger students watch and learn what the older students are doing, and will become leaders themselves! This program has helped bring out the best in our Beryl Ford BFFs and has been inspired by our wonderful Principal, Ms. Robinson.

Coming Up In December……. Dec. 9th- 9:00 am – Primary Winter Concert (Parents Invited) Dec. 9th- SPIRIT DAY- Shine Bright Like a Diamond Dec. 23rd- SPIRIT DAY- Pajama Day Dec. 26th- Jan. 6th-WINTER BREAK

BF News Updates….

For any students taking part in any sports teams excursions, there will be a fee of $5.00 per student, per excursion. Students will bring home permission forms as the teams are organized.

___________________________________________________________________ Train More. Rehearse More. Learn More. New Peel District School Board program offers flexible school options for student athletes, artists Does your child/teen have an intense sports or arts training and competition schedule that makes it difficult to attend school regularly? The Peel District School Board’s new Peel Region High Performers Program will offer flexible timetabling to accommodate student athletes and artists with demanding practice, competition, rehearsal and/or performance schedules. Peel Region High Performers Program will open in September 2017. Information nights will be offered as follows: Grades Information Night Location

4 to 5 Nov. 2, 2016 at 6:30 p.m. Britannia Public School 1145 Swinbourne Dr. in Mississauga

6 to 8 Nov. 9, 2016 at 6 p.m. Dolphin Sr. Public School 18 Brookside Dr. in Mississauga

Applications are now available at: www.peelschools.org/HighPerformers.

School Success at Beryl Ford

The new school year has gotten off to a good start and our staff is busy planning for the success

of our students. Using the EQAO results (see below) as one of our pieces of data, the team has

engaged on a number of planning activities to chart the pathway for this year’s school success

journey. On the October 7 Professional Learning Day, the staff met as a whole and in committees

to review assessment data, the 2015-2016 School Success Plan and Theories of Action. The

purpose of such analysis was to determine the areas of students’ progress and challenges to be

addressed. As a follow up, each committee engaged in establishing the Theory of Action for their

respective area of focus (see below). As a result of all this collective work, we feel prepared to

face the year ahead with the tools necessary to inspire confidence, success and hope in each

student. Looking forward to a productive and exciting year ahead!

EQAO Results for 2015-2016

% of students at levels 3 & 4 Grade 3 Grade 6

Reading 83 79

Writing 87 83

Math 78 55

School Success Committees

Theory of Action (2016-2017)

Climate (Mental

Health & Wellness)

If we promote a culture of health and well-being, then we will meet the

social/emotional needs of our learning community, develop positive

relationships amongst all stakeholders and maintain a safe and inclusive

environment

Climate (Bullying

Prevention &

Intervention)

If we provide a safe, inclusive and supportive learning community that

establishes a culture of empathetic and accountable leaders through the

modeling of the Character Traits, then we will actively participate in

Bullying Prevention & Intervention to increase understanding and

awareness, and Choose Action

Literacy If we regularly provide, teach and utilize assessment vocabulary, math

vocabulary and problem solving strategies, then students will be able to

understand, communicate and apply their knowledge

Numeracy If we use guiding questions throughout rich tasks, which are

embedded with social justice and equity themes, and have students

and teachers engage in accountable talk and descriptive feedback, then

students will use mathematical reasoning to communicate their

understanding while making connections as global citizens

Peel schools, students and staff recognize and honour First Nation Land daily At the Peel District School Board, everything we do is designed to help each child achieve to the best of his or her ability. The board recognizes that encouraging, inclusive and respectful environments help students achieve to the best of their ability. As part of this important work, at the Regular Meeting of the board on Sept. 30, trustees approved that the following statement will be played/read each school day at all Peel schools and all board-hosted events prior to the Canadian national anthem: We would like to acknowledge that we are on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation.

The acknowledgement recognizes Indigenous heritage and the importance of the land that we are located on. In addition to helping build awareness about one of our local First Nation communities, the acknowledgement also honours the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action about honouring Indigenous people’s historical and contemporary contributions to Canada. Students in all Peel schools will learn about the importance of the acknowledgement through lesson plans produced in collaboration and partnership with the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation through the use of the Sacred Trust resource.

Winter bus safety

The following winter school bus safety tips will help to keep your child safe throughout the winter months.

Allow extra time to get to your bus stop. Wear bright clothing so the bus can see you in the early morning and late evening. Stand away from where the bus stops. Buses need extra room to stop when there is snow and ice. Use the handrail when boarding or exiting the bus to prevent slipping on wet or icy steps or road surfaces. Dress properly—winter clothing, hats, and boots will keep you warm. Don't throw snowballs at the bus or other children waiting for the bus. Don't slide on the snow or ice patches in driveways or on the street. Don't push or shove around the bus. Someone could fall down on the ice and get hurt. On very rare occasions, buses are late because of weather conditions or mechanical problems. Talk to your child about what to do if the bus is late. Here are some suggestions: When possible, wait with your child for the bus. Make sure your child knows a phone number where he can reach you or another trusted adult. Teach your child how and where to get help. Talk to your child about what a "safe" stranger is. Help your child set up a bus stop buddy system so your child has someone to wait with for the bus.

Help your teen plan for grade 9 course selections for 2017-18 Soon, current grade 8 students will select their courses for grade 9. Before they do, we want to ensure that they have the opportunity to consult with their teachers, guidance counsellor, if applicable, and their parents. As our partners, families are encouraged to help prepare their teens for course selection. We encourage you to become familiar with the process by creating a myBlueprint account. Every parent and student (grades 7-12) can have access to myBlueprint features such as: High School – plan courses, track progress toward graduation, and instantly identify post-

secondary eligibility for opportunities in every pathway

Post-Secondary– compare detailed information on apprenticeships, college programs,

university programs and workplace sectors

Who Am I – complete surveys (including Learning Styles, Myers-Briggs Personality, Holland

Interests, Knowledge, Motivations, and Compatibility)

Portfolios – create several portfolios (e.g. Career Portfolio) and share them with parents,

teachers, or future employers. It’s simple to add work you have completed in myBlueprint

or add pictures and videos

Job Search – find real-world job and volunteering postings that relate to occupations of

interest

Goals – add interactive SMART goals and action plans

Resumes & Cover Letters – record experiences, build a resume, write a cover letter

Occupations – compare comprehensive information on occupations

Money – build a budget to track income and expenses

Additionally, parents/guardians and students can review the Chart Your Course document , Peel District School Board’s common course calendar (found at www.makingmyway.ca). This guide will help you understand the course selection process and provide information on the courses and programs offered in Peel secondary schools. The grade 9 course selection process will be open from Nov. 14 to Dec.2, 2016. If you have questions or are looking for course suggestions, please contact your teen’s teachers or guidance counsellor.

Bus cancellation & closing schools due to bad weather

During the winter months, we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather.

Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be announced on radio and television stations listed below and posted at www.peelschools.org, school websites and www.stopr.ca. Information will also be available on Twitter (@Peelschools), Facebook (www.facebook.com/peelschools) or by calling 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146. VIRGIN RADIO FM99.9 CHUM AM1050 CFTR AM680 CFNY FM102.1/AM640 CJCL AM590 CHFI FM98.1 NEWSTALK 1010 AM EZ ROCK FM97.3CJBC (FR) AM860 FM Z103.5 FM93.1 FM Q107 CHIN FM100.7/AM1540 CBC99.1 CTV BREAKFAST TELEVISION GLOBAL NEWS CITYPULSE One of the following messages will be announced (highlighted text only): Peel District School Board buses are cancelled. This means that schools remain open for students and staff, but buses are cancelled. Bus cancellations could occur in all or parts of municipalities. Buses will remain cancelled all day. All activities that require busing will also be cancelled. Permits, night school classes, child care and other activities in schools will operate as usual. All Peel District School Board schools and board offices are closed. This means that all schools and Board offices are closed to students and staff. All activities in schools and board offices are also cancelled, including child care, night school and permits. All evening programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelled. This means that all activities in schools and Board offices are cancelled, including continuing education courses and events. The buildings will be closed. All weekend programs and permits at the Peel District School Board are cancelled. This means that all activities in schools and Board offices are cancelled, including continuing education courses and events. The buildings will be closed.

*NEW* Community Corner Stay up-to-date with community-based opportunities The Peel District School Board is pleased to introduce an electronic resource page on www.peelschools.org called, Community Corner, which contains links to information and resources in the community that may be of interest to students and their families. This site replaces our previous method of sending promotional materials about community clubs, camps, contests, fundraisers and events home with students on a regular basis. How you can access Community Corner

1. Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/communitycorner 2. Click on the “Community Corner” button, found on the main page of school websites, as well as

on www.peelschools.org.

Is French Immersion right for my child? If your child will be starting grade 1 in September 2017, one of the important choices you will make is whether you want to apply for the French Immersion (FI) program. What is the program like? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the program? One way to help answer these questions is to attend the information meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m. at the French Immersion school your child would attend. To find out the FI school your child would attend:

visit our website www.peelschools.org/French

call the school in your area

call 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 ext. 2212 Online application The application form for Grade 1 French Immersion for the 2017-18 school year will be available online at www.peelschools.org/French on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m. The deadline to register is Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m. Applications received after that date will be put on a waiting list. A French Immersion enrolment cap is in place. This means that a specific number of spots are available for students entering grade 1 French Immersion. A random selection process will be used to identify students gaining entrance into the program. For more information about the random selection process visit www.peelschools.org/French.

Important dates Information meeting Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m. Application process opens Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m. Application deadline Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m. For more information

visit www.peelschools.org/French

call your nearest French Immersion school

talk with parents who have children in the French Immersion program

visit the Canadian Parents for French website at http://on.cpf.ca

Is Extended French right for my child?

If your child will be starting grade 7 in September 2017, one of the important choices you will make is whether you want to apply for the Extended French (EF) program. What is the program like? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the program? One way to help answer these questions is to attend the information meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m. at the EF school your child would attend. To find out the EF school your child would attend:

visit our website www.peelschools.org/French

call the school in your area

call 905-890-1010 or 1-800-668-1146 ext. 2212

Online application The application form for Grade 7 EF for the 2017-18 school year will be available online at www.peelschools.org/French on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m. The deadline to apply is Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m. Applications received after that date will be put on a waiting list.

Important dates Information meeting Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016 at 7 p.m. Application process opens Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016 at 1 p.m. Application deadline Friday, Jan. 27, 2017 at 4 p.m.

For more information

visit www.peelschools.org/French

call your nearest Extended French school

talk with parents who have children in the Extended French program

visit the Canadian Parents for French website at http://on.cpf.ca

Nov. 25 opportunity to say 'thanks' to Peel Custodial & Maintenance Workers Day

In 2014, the board of trustees declared the last Friday in November as the Peel Custodial and Maintenance Workers’ Day. This year, the recognition day falls on Friday, Nov. 25, 2016. Take this opportunity to thank the important work of custodial and maintenance workers and their hard work and commitment to well-being and safety.

#ChooseAction on Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week The Peel District School Board will recognize Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week during the week of Nov. 20 to 26, 2016. This year, we ask our Peel community to ‘#ChooseAction to Be the Difference’ in their classes, offices, schools, communities or world, in order to make these spaces better places for everyone. The Peel Board would like to hear about the big and small actions, the pledges, the promises and the attitudes that our Peel community value, and ask that you take a moment to share your #ChooseAction moments on social media. Across the Peel board, schools use many programs and initiatives to prevent bullying and to intervene when bullying happens. Though the programs vary, their messages are consistent. Students are taught to:

define bullying identify forms of bullying identify the shifting roles in bullying relationships, for example the person who bullies, the

target, the bystander or the trusted advocate determine how to safely “choose action” to prevent and intervene in bullying &

harassment understand that bullying is a relationship problem with relationship solutions determine positive ways to interact with others in an accepting, inclusive way demonstrate character attributes and be a leader to help maintain positive and safe

school communities

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week is one of the key items contained in Bill 13: The Accepting Schools Act, that came into effect on Sept. 1, 2012. For more information, visit: www.peelschools.org/aboutus/safeschools/bullying/ or www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/safeschools/prevention.html.

Peel board students have choice Explore program options at www.makingmyway.ca Students have different needs, interests and abilities—our schools offer great educational opportunities to help all students achieve. For students looking for a more focused, specialized program, here are some options: Regional programs start in grades 6, 7 and 9

Students in regional programs still complete all of the requirements of the Ontario curriculum, but there is an increased focus on an area of interest. Programs include:

• Actively in Motion (AIM) • Advanced Placement • Arts • Arts and Technology • Graphic Design Management: Flexography • International Baccalaureate • International Business and Technology • International and Executive Leadership Academy • SciTech • Sports • Strings • Truck and Coach Technology

Specialist High Skills Major programs start in grade 11 Specialist High Skills Major programs allow students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector, while meeting the requirements to graduate from secondary school. Students gain sector-recognized certification and career-relevant training. The programs support the transition after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace. Peel board schools offer Specialist High Skills Major programs in the following area.

Arts & Culture

Business and Entrepreneurial Studies

Construction

Environment

Health and Wellness

Hospitality and Tourism

Information and Communications Technology

Justice, Community Safety and Emergency Services

Manufacturing

Non-Profit

Sports

Transportation

More options for Peel board students co-operative education programs provide workplace experience

extended French starts in grade 7

dual credit programs allow student to earn college credits at the same time as secondary school credits

alternative programs are available for students who need flexible school hours, are dealing with unique situations, or require more support

Our guidance counsellors can help students determine which courses will best meet their needs, interests and abilities—contact the school to make an appointment.

For more information about regional programs, Specialist High Skills Major programs and other programs of choice available to Peel board students, visit www.makingmyway.ca.

Subscribe to receive news from the Peel board

Take advantage of our electronic subscription service to automatically receive updates from the Peel District

School Board. Subscribing is easy just visit our website at www.peelschools.org and click on the subscription link under "Quick Links."

During the winter months, we may need to cancel buses or close schools because of inclement weather. Information regarding details of cancellations or closures will be posted on our Twitter (@Peelschools) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/peelschools) accounts, as well as, on www.peelschools.org and www.stopr.ca.

You can also subscribe to receive: News releases Keep up with the news at the Peel board. Subscribe to receive Peel board news releases to learn more about board news and school events. Board agendas Learn more about Peel board meetings by subscribing to receive agendas. Meetings of the board are open to the public and are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Board highlights Briefing is a newsletter with highlights of decisions made by trustees at board meetings. It is sent out on the second and fourth Thursday of every month and immediately following any special board meetings. Job postings for non-teaching staff Learn about each new non-teaching job that is posted on the Peel board's Job Board.

Traffic safety in our community

Safety is a top priority at our school. Here is a list of traffic tips to keep students, staff and parents safe while commuting to and from school.

Respect traffic signs and road markers around the school.

Drive slowly and with caution on and near school property. Adhere to the posted speed limits on any surrounding streets used by students on their way to and from school.

Always yield to pedestrian traffic. Wait for students, staff members and parents to cross before driving past them.

When dropping your child off at the school, use the Kiss'n'Ride area. This is a supervised area that is designed to keep students safe.

Do not double park or do anything else to block traffic or draw your child off the curb and into traffic. Do not take shortcuts over curbs.

Have your child ready to exit the car when you reach the curb. Say goodbye to your child before you park at the curb to let your child out of your car.

During regular drop-off times, students are to remain in the car until it is safe for them to exit the car onto the curb.

Follow the directions of staff or volunteers on duty in the school parking lot and treat staff, students, volunteers, passengers and other drivers with respect.

Consider parking off site and walking a short distance to school. This will give you time to talk to your children about their day, review new vocabulary words, math concepts, etc.

Remind your child to only cross the street at an intersection or crosswalk. They should never “jaywalk” by crossing in the middle of the street.

Students who bike to school should always wear a helmet, and follow all traffic laws. They should only cross the street at a crosswalk or intersection—never in the middle of the road.

Parent resources help you support your child’s learning At the Peel board, our mission is to inspire success, confidence and hope in each child. There is no doubt that families play a vital role in helping us achieve this goal. As our partner in education, we hope you'll stay connected to your child's learning throughout his or her entire school experience. Visit www.peelschools.org/parents/helpyourchild to explore all resources available to parents. There you will find easy-to-navigate buttons that connect families to tip sheets and web pages on a number of different topics, including math, homework, special education, EQAO and mental health.

Prevent the flu. It's in your hands.

Hand washing is the most important way to prevent the spread of infection. Always wash your hands with soap and water when they are dirty.

Clean your hands before:

i. touching your eyes, nose or mouth ii. touching/preparing food or drinks

iii. eating or drinking iv. caring for someone in your home who can easily get sick (baby, elderly or someone who

has an unhealthy immune system) v. first aid

Clean your hands after:

i. touching pets or other animals ii. touching raw meat, particularly chicken

iii. touching surfaces such as a railing iv. or grocery cart v. touching money

vi. touching objects sick people have touched vii. touching blood or body fluids such as urine, vomit or feces

viii. contact with those who have a cold, the flu, diarrhea or virus of any kind ix. changing diapers x. wiping your own or a child's nose

xi. sneezing or coughing xii. using a facial tissue

xiii. using the washroom xiv. removing gloves xv. cleaning

xvi. gardening

What to do when you cough or sneeze: i. cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve

ii. put used tissues in the wastebasket iii. clean your hands with soap and water or a hand sanitizer

For more information call Peel Health at 905-799-7700 or visit www.peelregion.ca/flu.

Celebrating Faith and Culture November 2016

DATE CELEBRATION FAITH AND CULTURE

November Gwilatkw and Freezing Moon Aboriginal Spirituality November 1 Birth of the Báb Bahá'í November 1 All Saints' Day Christianity November 1 Samhain Wicca November 2 Birth of Baha’u’lláh Bahá'í November 3 -21 The month of Qudrat Bahá'í November 5 Gnan Panchami Jainism November 11 Remembrance Day Canada November 14 Dev Diwali or Lokashah Jayanti Hinduism and Jainsim November 14 Birth of Guru Nanak Sikhism November 16 Louis Riel Day Aboriginal Spirituality November 22 - December 10 The month of Qawl Bahá'í November 24 Martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur Sikhism November 25 Day of Covenant Bahá'í November 27 Ascension of 'Abdu'l-Bahá Bahá'í November 27 or 28 (J) First Day of Advent (Christmas

fast) Christianity

November 27 First Sunday of Advent Christianity

Celebrating Faith and Culture Backgrounder November 2016 The Peel District School Board is a mosaic of many cultures and faiths from all over the world. To commemorate this diversity, the board recognizes special faith and culture days of our communities. November 2016 has several special faith and culture days to celebrate and remember:

________________________________________________________________________ November - Gwilatkw and Freezing Moon in Aboriginal Spirituality

This season is celebrated by Nisga'a people of the Nass Valley in northwest British Columbia. It is a time when the earth is blanketed with the first snow and also prepares itself to be covered for the long winter months. The eleventh moon is known as the Freezing moon by the Ojibwe people. This period is a reminder for the people to devote themselves to spiritual paths through sacred learnings and teachings.

November 1 - Birth of the Báb in Bahá'í

Bahá'ís around the world celebrate the Birth of the Báb, on this day. It is one of 11 holy days in the Bahá'í calendar where adherents suspend work. They often refer to the Báb as the herald of the Bahá'í faith, because they believe it was his mission to prepare the way for Bahá'u'lláh, the founder of the Bahá'í faith. The Báb called upon the people to purify themselves for the coming of the day of God.

Bahá'ís celebrate the birth of the Báb in various simple but joyous ways. In most communities, celebrations are held. After beginning with prayers and devotional readings, these celebrations can take any number of forms. Most often they are simply social gatherings.

November 1 - All Saints' Day in Christianity All Saints' Day began as the Feast of All Martyrs on May 13, 609 A.D. All Saints' Day is a universal Christian feast that honours and remembers all Christian saints known and unknown. It is celebrated on Nov. 1 in the West. In medieval England, the festival was known as All Hallows, hence the name Halloween (All Hallows' eve) for the preceding evening - October 31. How churches observe the Feast of All Saints differs widely.

November 1 - Samhain in Wicca Samhain (pronounced saw-an), commonly referred to as Halloween, is a religious holiday celebrated by the followers of the Wicca faith and celebrates the Celtic New Year. The festival traditionally includes gathering of families in love and remembrance, including ancestors for a festive meal. November 2 - Birth of Baha’u’lláh in Bahá'í The followers of Báhá'í faith commemorate the Birth of Baha’u’lláh, the founder of the Báhá'í faith.

Baha’u’lláh was born in Teheran in August 1817 into a noble family. He declined the ministerial career of his father that was open to him in government and chose instead to devote his energies to a range of philanthropies which had, by the early 1840s, earned him a reputation as “Father of the Poor.” Baha’u’lláh founded the faith in 1852 from the roots of many world faiths. There are no set practices or services to commemorate the various holy days of the Báhá'í faith. Different communities may organize devotional days of prayers and readings appropriate to the event. November 3 to November 21 - The month of Qudrat in Bahá'í In the Bahá'í calendar, there are 19 months of 19 days each. Each month represents an attribute of God. November 3 is the beginning of Qudrat, the thirteenth month of the Bahá'í calendar, signifying "power." The Bahá'í day starts and ends at sunset. The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day. November 5 - Gnan Panchami in Jainism Gnan Panchami is the celebration that takes place on the 5th day of the first month of the Jain year. On this day, the scriptures, which impart knowledge to the people, are worshipped with religious devotion. Svädhyäya (group discourses and prayers), meditation, and Pratikraman (asking forgiveness) are carried out.

November 11 - Remembrance Day in Canada Canada honours the memory of men and women who have served our country in times of war, conflict and recent peace duties on this day. It remembers those lost during World War 1, World War 2, the Korean War and other recent conflicts by observing a moment of silence at the 11th hour. Poppies are distributed Red ones as flowers of remembrance and White ones for peace.

November 14 - Dev Diwali or Lokashah Jayanti in Hinduism and Jainism Dev Diwali is celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Kartik (first month in Hindu/Jain calendar). Tulsi Vivah (marriage of Tulsi - Mahalaxmi incarnate with Lord Shaligram - Vishnu incarnate) is celebrated on this festival. Followers of the two faiths, resolve on this day, to give up negative traits like ego, anger, greed, etc. in pursuit of spirituality. On this day, Jains remember their spiritual leaders and also commemorate the liberation of Tirthankara Mahavir by lighting lamps and reading the scriptures. November 14 - Birth of Guru Nanak in Sikhism This day, one of the biggest celebrations in the Sikh faith, honours the birthday of Guru Nanak, the founder of the Sikh religion. To celebrate, followers of Sikhism read the Sikh holy book, the Guru Granth Sahib, continuously from beginning to end. This is done by a team of men and women, each reading for two to three hours over 48 hours, ending early on the morning of Guru Nanak’s birthday. The gurudwaras are decorated with flowers, flags and posters depicting various aspects of Sikhism. Sikhs join together to sing, pray, offer and eat special foods like karah prashad, a sweet made from semolina, sugar and ghee (clarified butter). November 16 - Louis Riel Day in Aboriginal Spirituality This day is celebrated in memory of Louis Riel, the Metis leader who helped his people form a government and become part of the newly created Dominion of Canada in 1870, and preserve Metis rights and culture. Today his name is a symbol of native independence. November 22 to December 10 - The month of Qawl in Bahá'í In the Bahá'í calendar, there are 19 months of 19 days each. Each month represents an attribute of God. November 22 is the beginning of Qawl, the fourteenth month of the Bahá'í calendar, signifying "speech." The Bahá'í day starts and ends at sunset. The first day of each month is known as a Feast Day. November 24 - Martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur in Sikhism This day pays homage to the martyr, Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth guru, who willingly sacrificed himself for the right to practice the Sikh faith. To celebrate this day, followers visit gurudwaras (Sikh places of worship) and observe the martyrdom of this guru with prayers, processions and kirtans (religious songs). Langar or community lunch is served, and is open to people from all walks of life and all faiths. Volunteers serve food with a spirit of seva (service) and bhakti (devotion). November 25 - Day of Covenant in Bahá'í On this day, Bahá'ís commemorate the establishment of the covenant that their founder, Bahá'u'lláh, made with his followers in order to prevent division of the faith into sects and denominations. He designated his son, 'Abdu'l-Bahá, as the "center of the covenant" and Shoghi Effendi, as "the guardian" of the faith.

November 27 - Ascension of 'Abdu'l-Bahá in Bahá'í On this day Bahá'í followers commemorate the passing of Abdul'Báha, son of the Prophet-Founder of the Bahá'í Faith. He died in Haifa, Palestine in 1921. November 27 or 28 (J) - First day of Advent (Christmas fast) in Christianity Christmas or winter fast is the Lenten Season observed from Nov. 27 up to Dec. 24. The followers of the Gregorian calendar begin their fast from Nov. 27. It is a period of fasting, praying and reflecting – in preparation and anticipation of the coming of Christ and Christmas. The followers of the revised Julian calendar begin their fast from Nov. 28th and observe it over a 40 day period. November 27 - First Sunday of Advent in Christianity The Western Christian church year begins with Advent which is also a time when Christians prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ. Advent begins on the Sunday closest to November 30 and lasts until Christmas Eve. Many churches include an advent wreath in their Advent services. The wreath consists of four candles (three purple and one rose) arranged in a circle of evergreen which symbolizes eternal life. The candles are lit progressively as follows: * First Sunday: one purple candle * Second Sunday: two purple candles * Third Sunday: two purple candles and the rose candle * Fourth Sunday: all four candles

The rose candle is also called the "Joy" candle and it comes out of the history of Advent. The Advent fast was broken on the third Sunday in anticipation of the great event to come. Often a fifth white candle is placed in the center of the circle. This is the Christ Candle, symbolizing Christ's birth, and it is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.

Ideas for celebrating special faith and cultural days in your school If you have a colleague who celebrates one of these days, don't forget to offer them best wishes! If you have students in your school who are followers of any of the listed religions: - Make sure the dates are included on your school calendar - Have your principal announce the day over the PA system - Hold an assembly to talk with students about the importance of these days - Include a mention of these days in your school newsletter - Include information on your school website - Display student artwork announcing these days or depicting their ideas about these days - Invite a member of a local faith group to come in and discuss the significance of this day with students - Have class discussions about these days

- Ask some of your students who celebrate certain holidays to write a short essay on how they celebrate this day at home. Have them read it to the class to share this celebration with the other students.

- Have parents offer a cultural session

Beryl Ford Public School

invites you to attend information session on Parenting

Who Is Invited?

Parents, Grandparents, and Caregivers

Learn about:

Supporting your child in school

Areas of Social, Emotional, Cognitive, Physical and Language development

Importance of the home language to English language learning.

When . . .

Friday, November 11, 2016

From 1:30– 2:30pm

Where . . .

Beryl Ford P.S (Enter through main door come to main office)

Questions?

Contact: Mashela Samadi - Settlement Counsellor

647-302-0499 or mashela.samadi@bmccentre.org

Please return the tear off

or Send an email @MASHELA.SAMADI@BMCCEENTRE.ORG

to Confirm if you are attending the workshop

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I will attend: YES ____________NO ___________

Parent’s Name ______________Student’s Name_____________

Telephone number__________________________

Connecting People, Building Communities!

Brampton North Brampton South Mississauga West

Locations 150 Central Park Drive, Suite 107 197 County Court Blvd., Suite 303 4120 Ridgeway Drive,

Unit 43

(Queen Street E & Dixie Road) (Hwy 10 & Ray Lawson Blvd.) (Burnhamthorpe & Ridgeway)

Phone: (905) 790-8482 Phone: (905) 790-8482 Phone: (905) 828-1325

Website: www.bmccentre.org or Email: services@bmccentre.org