Thunder News Flash – July 1, 2023

I hope that everyone has an opportunity to celebrate Canada Day.  On this special day, let us take a moment to express our gratitude for the freedoms, opportunities, and privileges we enjoy as Canadians. May we never take for granted the blessings of peace, education, and the ability to practice our faith openly.

I encourage each and every one of you to embrace the spirit of Canada Day by engaging in acts of kindness, unity, and service within our local community. Together, let us build a brighter future, rooted in the values of love, respect, and empathy.

Here is a list of all of the school staff for next school year:

• Mrs. Julie Lee – Principal
• Miss Sheena Lewis – Vice Principal & Learning Resource Coordinator
• Mrs. Brenda Di Palma – Kindergarten Teacher
• Miss Sophia Bouwman – Kindergarten / Grade 1 Teacher
• Mrs. Tara Gaudet (Monday – Wednesday) & Mrs. Rita Wakely (Thursday & Friday) – Grade 2 Teachers
• Mrs. Caroline Winship – Grade 3 Teacher
• Mrs. Laura Hunger – Grade 4 Teacher
• Mrs. Zuzana Lavrikova – Grade 5 Teacher
• Mrs. Lauren Schwagele – Grade 6 Teacher
• Mrs. Rita Wakely (Monday – Wednesday) & Mrs. Dos Santos (Thursday & Friday) – Grade 7 Teachers
• Mrs. Rebecca Baker – P.E. Teacher (Tuesday & Thursday)
• Mr. Michael Sorley – French/ADST/Library Teacher
• Mrs. Larissa Cobo – Learning Resource Teacher
• Mrs. Marie Doyle – Learning Resource Teacher
• Mrs. Denise Berger – Educational Assistant
• Mr. Paul Cavalli – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Bev Dodd – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Krystle Nootebos – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Erin Peters – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Maryanne Tillekeratne – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Teresa Rosa – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Kelsey Saggu – Educational Assistant
• Miss Carol Schmidt – Educational Assistant
• Miss Taylor Smith – Educational Assistant
• Sr. Elizabeth de Guzman – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Nuria Rivera – Educational Assistant
• Mrs. Marilyn Dlugan – School Secretary
• Mrs. Brigette Wimmer – School Bookkeeper

Please note that next year we will have Mass and Assemblies on Wednesday mornings.

The next Work Bee will take place on Saturday, July 8th from 9:00am – 2:00pm.  If you have indicated that you would like to participate in the Work Bee Parent Participation group, please come and help out at our Summer Work Bees if you are able.  Also, additional people are always welcome if you want to get a jumpstart on your Parent Participation hours.  Please bring a lunch and any small cordless gardening tools that you have available.  Gloves for both inside and outside work would also be great things to bring with you.  The second summer Work Bee will take place on Saturday, August 12th from 9:00 – 2:00pm.  Thank you for all of your hard work!

Dear Parents,

We are excited to share with you that we have developed a robust new plan to address the needs of our elementary school. A recent report sanctioned by the Archdiocese has indicated that the main school is in very good to excellent condition, and we have spent the better part of the year working together to create a plan that best serves the needs of our students and staff.

Our plan is broken down into three phases: first, we will be addressing the portables, which are in fair to good condition; second, we will be looking at improving the gym facilities; and third, we will be looking at making seismic upgrades to the main building. We want to assure you that we are working hard to find a suitable upgrade for the portables and we will keep you informed of any developments in this regard.

Throughout this process, we are committed to transparency and open communication with parents. We want you to feel informed and involved every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Thank you for your continued support of our elementary school.

Sincerely,
The Building Committee

As we approach the end of another enriching academic year, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. It has been a privilege to serve as your principal throughout this past year, and I am truly humbled by the support, trust, and dedication shown by our entire school community.

As we bid farewell to this academic year, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you—our students, parents, guardians, teachers, staff members, and volunteers. Together, we have created an environment that fosters academic excellence, spiritual growth, and a strong sense of community.

Reflecting on the past year, I am filled with immense pride for the accomplishments we have achieved together. Our students have showcased their talents, resilience, and determination, excelling in their studies, embracing opportunities for personal growth, and exhibiting kindness and compassion towards one another.

I would like to extend a special word of gratitude to our dedicated teachers and staff members who have gone above and beyond to ensure our students received a high-quality education. Your unwavering commitment and passion have made a lasting impact on the lives of our students and have set a shining example for all.

To our parents and guardians, thank you for entrusting us with the education and nurturing of your children. Your partnership and active involvement in our school community have been invaluable. We greatly appreciate your continuous support and collaboration in fostering a positive learning environment for our students.

As we prepare for a well-deserved summer break, I encourage all of you to take this time to relax, recharge, and create beautiful memories with your loved ones. Summer provides a unique opportunity to explore new horizons, engage in activities that inspire us, and deepen our connections with one another and with God.

While we enjoy this break, let us not forget the importance of faith, reflection, and service. May our families continue to be guided by the teachings of Christ, embodying love, compassion, and generosity in all that we do. Let us seek opportunities to make a positive difference in our communities and to extend a helping hand to those in need.

We eagerly anticipate your return in the fall, where we will embark on new adventures, face new challenges, and continue our shared journey of faith and learning.

In conclusion, I would like to express my profound gratitude for the trust you have placed in me during my first year as principal. It has been an honour to serve this remarkable school community, and I am excited for the future as we continue to grow and thrive together.

May the blessings of this summer be abundant for each and every one of you. Stay safe, take care, and may God’s grace be with you always.