Happy October, Whiteside Wolves!

 

We're howling with excitement about all the amazing things happening this month! First, a huge thank you to our dedicated teachers, staff, and all the families who helped make our recent outdoor education camping trip such a success. We hope your children came home with happy memories and a deeper appreciation for nature. Now, get ready to lace up those running shoes for the school district’s annual Garry Point Fun Run! We can't wait to see our Wolf Pack show their school spirit. This week will also bring valuable learning conferences, giving you a chance to connect with teachers and discuss your child's progress. And of course, we're looking forward to some spooky fun with our Halloween celebrations!

 

We acknowledge and thank the First Peoples of the hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ language group on whose traditional and unceded territories we teach, learn and live, and upon where the Musqueam people continue their traditions and cultural education.

 

Coming Events:

Oct. 22             Cross-Country Fun Run at Garry Pt.

Oct. 22             PAC meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Teams

Oct. 22             DARE #3

Oct. 23             Learning Conferences (11:50 a.m. dismissal)

Oct. 24             Emergency Thursday (Hold and Secure)

Oct. 25             Provincial Pro-D (no school)

Oct. 29             PAC Halloween Party from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 1              Hot lunch (pizza)

Nov. 8              Remembrance Day assembly at 1:00 p.m.

Nov. 11             Remembrance Day (school closed)

Nov. 14             TCO2 for Gr. 4-7

Nov. 15             Hot lunch (Subway)

Nov. 25             Pro-D (school closed)

Nov. 29             Hot lunch (pizza)

Dec. 13             Hot lunch (White Spot)

 

 

WHITESIDE INFORMATION AND EVENTS

Learning Conferences

We have an early dismissal at 11:50 a.m. on October 23 to host our fall learning conferences. These conferences are a great opportunity to connect with the school and discuss your child's learning. Please check in with your classroom teacher for more information and scheduling an appointment.

 

Parking Lot Safety: A Friendly Reminder

Drop-off and pick-up times can get hectic! Let's work together to keep our parking lot safe for everyone. Please remember these important points:

• Drive slowly and cautiously: Children can be unpredictable, so always be alert and watch for pedestrians.
• Use designated parking spaces only: Do not park in the fire lane, drive-thru lane, or in staff parking areas. This can block traffic flow and create hazards.
• Hold your child's hand: Always supervise young children and hold their hands when walking through the parking lot.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Look for moving vehicles and be mindful of blind spots when backing up.

Thank you for your cooperation in making our school a safe place for all!

 

Run Club:

Whiteside Run Club practices have been a wonderful opportunity for our students and families to get moving in the mornings.  We will celebrate a successful season of running at the district Cross Country Fun Run on Tuesday, October 22^nd after school at Garry Point. Please visit the office for permission forms and information.

 

PAC Halloween Party!

Our amazing PAC is planning their annual Halloween party and dance. Our gym will transform into a spoooky party at 5:30 p.m. with games, treats, a costume contest, and more family fun. At 6:30 p.m., we will clear the floor for a haunted dance party until 7:30 p.m.

We are looking for high school volunteers to help run our games and stations. Please email whitesidepac@hotmail.com if you have a high school aged child that would like to earn some volunteer hours.

Please see the attached flyer for more information.

 

PAC Updates

Our PAC is a great group of parents that care for our school and students. PAC are amazing resources for our entire school community. A strong PAC bonds our school community with our families. PAC is an excellent way for our families to connect directly with the action at our school, as well as develop relationships within the parent community. Please reach out to our PAC at whitesidepac@hotmail.com for more information and an invitation link for future PAC meetings. Our October PAC meeting will be on Teams. Childminding will be provided. Our next PAC meeting is at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22. A link will be sent closer to our meeting.

 

DARE:

Students in grade 5 and 6 are now participating in the DARE program with the Richmond RCMP. The DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) program equips students with the knowledge and skills to make safe and responsible choices, helping them avoid involvement with drugs, alcohol, and risky behaviors. Through engaging lessons and discussions, the program empowers children to build confidence and make positive decisions that will benefit them throughout their lives.

 

FSAs for Grade 4 and 7:

Students in grade 4 and 7 are now completing the Foundation Skills Assessment. The Foundational Skills Assessments (FSAs) help us understand your child's progress in key areas like reading, writing, and math, providing insight into their learning. These assessments allow both teachers and parents to identify strengths and areas where additional support may be needed, ensuring each student reaches their full potential. This assessment is one of many that provides information about student learning at Whiteside and throughout the province.

 

Whiteside Fundraising

After a summer of collecting empty cans and bottles, you can help raise money for Whiteside. Return your cans and bottles to our local Return It depot (Unit 110 - 11020 Horseshoe Way), go to the Express area, type in our number 604-668-6419, affix the label to your bag, drop, and go.

 

West Coast Recess:

During recess and lunchtime breaks, students are expected to always be outside this year.  Students are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather. You may also send a change of clothes to school just in case your child gets wet. Playing outside will ensure our students get some fresh air and exercise to enliven their day.

 

 

DISTRICT INFORMATION AND UPDATES

Nut Awareness

Nut products can cause severe and life-threatening allergic reactions. To help us maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all students and staff, we ask that you refrain from bringing any items containing nuts to school. While we cannot guarantee an allergen-free environment, the district is committed to taking reasonable steps to minimize the risk of accidental exposure to life-threatening allergens. 

 

Student And Family Affordability Fund

The provincial government recently announced a renewal of one-time funds for the Student and Family Affordability Fund. This fund is designed to assist families who require financial assistance with school-related costs in the following areas:

• school and course fees.
• school supplies and course materials.
• field trips.
• school-related extracurricular opportunities. 
• clothing and footwear required for sports and school activities. 

Please reach out to our principal, Brett Cameron, (whiteside@sd38.bc.ca) if you need assistance.  As always, all requests will be treated with dignity and your privacy will be respected. We want to work with our families to ensure that our students, your children, have everything they need to be successful at school. Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can help.

 

Feeding Futures

Recently, the provincial government announced a new Feeding Futures School Program Fund, designed to assist schools in the development and enhancement of school meal programs and other nutritional supports for students. If you would like to request support for your child at school, please reach out to our principal, Brett Cameron (bcameron@sd38.bc.ca). We currently provide breakfast and lunch options for students daily. All requests will be treated with dignity and your privacy will be respected. We want to work with families to ensure that your children have everything they need to be successful at school. Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can help.

 

THE MORE YOU KNOW…

Create "anchors" - simple rituals or routines - to bring a sense of stability and connection for families. (Dr. Hannah Beach)

Here are some key takeaways for families:

Anchors provide security:  In a busy and unpredictable world, anchors offer a sense of predictability and calm for children (and adults!).

Anchors strengthen connection:  Shared routines foster a sense of belonging and togetherness, creating special moments for families to bond.

Anchors can be simple:  It doesn't have to be complicated!  Think regular family dinners, bedtime stories, weekend hikes, or even a special handshake.

Anchors create lasting memories:  These repeated moments become cherished traditions and build a shared family history.

Anchors help during transitions:  When life gets chaotic (new baby, moving, etc.), anchors provide a sense of normalcy and comfort.

Find what works for YOUR family:  The best anchors are those that fit your family's interests and lifestyle. Get creative and have fun with it!

(https://hannahbeach.ca/why-every-family-needs-an-anchor/)

 

COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND EVENTS:

 

Have a great weekend!

 

 ~Whiteside Elementary