News

News From the Tiger’s Den - December 1st, 2025

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Information for Tiger Families</h2> Dear Tiger Families, <img src="/images/29cf544d-93aa-488c-b962-b033de951a86?fingerprint=ppb20251217013406" alt="2025December7" width="354" height="472" style="width:354px;height:472px;display:inline-block;float:right">Happy December! There will be lots of fun and exciting things happening at school this month. Stay tuned for information coming home each week. Remember to mark your calendars for December 10th so that you can join us for some "Winter Magic" from 5 pm to 7 pm. We look forward to seeing you there!The construction continues and there has been some major progress with the paving. Beginning this week, there will be a change in the bus traffic and bus drop off and pick up for our students. This will now occur in between Ernestown ISS and Odessa PS. Drop off for our walking students will now return to the original spot (small gates the front of the school). For families dropping off their children, make sure that you go all the way to the circular turnaround. Please do not do u-turns in the middle of the road. This is a serious safety issue. There is a map included below for your reference.There have been a number of cases of respiratory illness over the last two weeks at Odessa PS. The Health Unit has been following this closely and has asked the we include some of the reminder posters about when to stay home as well as what you can do to protect yourself and your family from illness.Our annual food drive begins this week and concludes on Friday, December 12th. Any families wishing to donate to the Food Drive should send the food items into the school and they will be collected in the hallway by the library. Our goal is to collect a minimum of 600 items for the food drive.As always, please reach out to us if you have questions or need support.Take care,Krista Esford, Principal <img src="/images/3d6fdd3b-ada8-45ec-926c-973780f3dde1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="2025December11" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/fe332907-883e-4f97-ae8c-a3c519095035?fingerprint=ppb20251217015329" alt="2025December8" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/e75f5f0f-b380-4696-aab0-6d03aebe51e7?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" alt="2025December1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/e275ff0d-de00-4a4d-a5ab-c18fcecc2015?fingerprint=ppb20251217015101" alt="2025December12" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/c12dd1e1-dcbc-4595-9a9e-bb01fee6cd15?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" alt="2025December13" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><img src="/images/2217496f-a032-4d7c-88e3-6f38ae49cd28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="2025October22" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Odessa Lost and Found</h2> <img src="/images/8d5773c2-9701-4d0c-bf8a-f8b7dda2eb1e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="2025October23" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-26 Parent Council Meeting #4: Minutes</h2> Meeting Date: Nov 18, 2025Time: 6:30- 7:30Location: Odessa Public School Library<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">1. Welcome and Introductions</h2> Chairperson’s welcomeAttendance:  - Parents Present: Stacey Waldram, Courtnie Storms, Katie Ramoutar, Rachel Moser, Courtney Sauve; Hailey DaCosta, Lindsay Kerr, Kim Keith, Erin Truesdell  - Staff Present: Courtney Bush  - Guests: No Guests<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2. Principal’s Report</h2>- Indigo love of reading grant- they raised over $8,000 for the school. We need to spend the grant money by March 31 at Indigo stores. Administration is working on plans to spend it on classroom and library reading materials.-Thank you to parent council and the lions club for the pumpkin patch pancakes!-Our junior girls and boys volleyball are practicing. The tournament should be next week.-Krista and Courtney have been running bingo/games club for the grades 5 and 6, and grades 3 and 4 from 12:25- 12:45 during second recess. Thank you to parent council for borrowing some of their games.-Thank you to Ms Brooks 5/6 class for running the thoughtful Remembrance Day ceremony.-Progress reports were sent home last Thursday. Thankful to staff for completing and ensuring that communication is happening with homes on student progress.-PA day Recap- all educators went to a keynote by U of T Faculty. Story telling for safe spaces for critical dialogue. Speaker in the afternoon on AI. Educators also attended workshops on literacy, well being, physical education etc.-Pink shirt day this Friday.-The construction will be handed back over to the school in the coming week(s) to move bussing from the tennis courts to in between the schools. Information will be shared with families on the transition, with drop off and pick up instructions.-School bus safety presentations start next week.- Jingle walk throughout the village of Odessa on Dec 5th- non-perishable food donations requested.- Winter Magic Evening Dec 10th from 5-7. Drop in style.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">3. Treasurer’s Report (FROM OCTOBER MEETING)</h2>Current balance: [$12,214.23]Two classes have accessed a portion of their $400 for field trips.Next month’s finance report should have the spirit wear revenue on it.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">4. Committee Reports</h2>Pro Grant Application-          $1000 for a parent/caregiver involvement, engagement night.-          Something physical or wellness related would be good so the parents and kids could participate-          Option: Gould Lake programming- with Dan Moser!-          Paint night is another option-          Stacey will look into if its possible to do both. Decide before next meeting on event.-          January 13th is the deadline for the grant.Email Correspondence-          BAND app- SAC members download app for the offline conversations and planning.Holiday Shop-          Mix of donated and new bulk supplies.-          The shop would be a lot for one day, consider splitting it across two days. [Approved- 2 days]-          Could mix kinders with older class to help with the buying process.-          We could create a shopping list for each of the family members they need to buy for.-          We should have an option for kids to participate who don’t have the money to spend, like a sponsor a kid option. Or SAC could allocate some money to cover the families who need it.-          Confirmed Dec 17-18th-          $2,000 for purchasing new gifts and wrapping/bags for kids to decorate [Approved]o   If you find something to purchase place it in Erin’s spreadsheet.-          Will accept good quality donations of specific items, like small stuffies, mugs, books, hot wheels. Write letter to parents seeking donations by Dec 10th. Courtney will organize student leaders to collect donations from classrooms.-          Brown craft paper will help for wrapping.-          Let Stacey know if you can volunteer on either day, 9-2.-          Decide if there needs to be a maximum amount, i.e., $15? Spirit Wear-          Order numbers are lower than last year.-          Kindness spirit wear did not meet minimum, so we will buy 3 more shirts and raffle them off [Approved]-          Hit min order amounts on all other items.Poinsettias/Gardens-          Do it next year! First two weeks in November.Holiday Night-          No fundraising needed. Open house style/drop in style between 5-7.Fun Fair-          Last year was May 23-          This year there is a PA day on May 29, so let’s aim for May 28. Rain date Jun 5th [Approved]-          Grant final paperwork submitted from last year.-          We will want to submit for the Loyalist Grant again this year but for less $ than last year.-          For next meeting bring ideas of things we can do differently this year. Any improvements from last year.Durham Street Road Closure-  Some SAC members attended the township meeting 3 weeks ago. Thanks to their efforts in raising concerns about the actual amount of traffic using Durham street, the township is reconsidering the proposal to close Durham at Main Street.- Similar input was shared from the community on the impact of the construction to the school and community members.- SAC members attended meeting with Limestone, Loyalist, County and Triboard officials. This meeting was held in regards to the whole concept of the road changes and the school drop off, including the buses. Each entity had changed something in the design that the other party didn’t know about and it was determined that additional planning and traffic volume assessment would be undertaken.-A traffic counter was added as a result from this meeting. They are doing additional research based on parents’ observations of actual traffic counts.- School administration is meeting with the township on Thursday and we will know more details following this meeting. This might be the last week of using the tennis courts for busses.<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">5. Adjournment</h2> Time adjourned: [8:15]<img src="/images/22568b64-b077-4b64-b434-f096c83a3470?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="2025December6" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block;float:right"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fodessapublicschool.entripyshops.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cesfordk%40limestone.on.ca%7C9249cf4f26894cf7037408ddf1373da3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638931941822133075%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecy5PgJbemRaTCQDcQW2cVBEJiBGMYvAWoHD3RV%2BZsI%3D&reserved=0" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Odessa Public School Spirit Wear eStore</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Loyalist Township Online Registration Guide</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">How to Order Hot Lunch through LunchBox</h2> <ie-document data-lexical-document-id="8c734ab0-3399-4236-840e-05e9a7800e18"></ie-document><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="6ee06426-d7c5-4020-9c16-469b0b20dea7"></ie-document><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Fun Times at Games Club This Week</h2> <img src="/images/60293e3b-fc25-4a9c-a968-39d61b387c1a?fingerprint=ppb20251217013856" alt="2025December17" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/e814c7ea-f713-4aa0-90b1-8bd846bc3e3f?fingerprint=ppb20251217015139" alt="2025December16" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Events for the Calendar </h2> Friday, December 5th- Success Assembly at 8:30 am, Jingle Bell Walk<img src="/images/d75f3dd5-4029-488d-bb1d-8476e75b2454?fingerprint=ppb20251217014957" alt="2025December5" width="215" height="287" style="width:215px;height:287px;display:inline-block;float:right">Wednesday, December 10th- Winter Magic Evening at Odessa (5pm to 7pm)Thursday, December 11th- STEM Field Trip (Grade 5)Friday, December 12th- ESS ConcertTuesday, December 16th- School Council Meeting at 6:30 pmWednesday, December 17th- Kid's Holiday ShopThursday, December 18th- Kids Holiday ShopFriday, December 19th- PJ DayMonday, December 22nd- First Day of Winter BreakMonday, January 5th- First Day Back to School <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Contact Us</h2> 10 North St.Odessa, Ontario, K0H2H0613-386-3022odesa@limestone.on.ca <img src="/images/50ffcf70-7ef1-46f4-a824-35d7c4f9a68e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="Odessa1" width="187" height="187" style="width:187px;height:187px;display:inline-block;float:right">Visit us on the web at <a href="https://www.odessa.limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">odessa.limestone.on.ca</a>

2025-12-01 17:10:47.631 +0000 UTC

Boardroom Briefs: November 2025

Boardroom Briefs is intended to provide highlights of presentations, reports and decisions made at the regular meeting of the Limestone District School Board of Trustees. The following are highlights of the November 19, 2025 Annual Board Meeting, and November 24, 2025 Nominations Committee Meeting. Agendas can be found on the website under <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/board_meetings-1719463739654" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Board Meetings</a>.   <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Annual General Meeting - November 19, 2025</h2><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Land Acknowledgement </h3>All meetings begin with a Land Acknowledgement: "The Limestone District School Board is situated on the traditional territories of the Anishinaabek and Haudenosaunee. We acknowledge their enduring presence on this land, as well as the presence of Métis, Inuit, and other First Nations from across Turtle Island. We honour their cultures and celebrate their commitment to this land."<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Call to Order</h3>Director of Education Krishna Burra: "In accordance with Section 208 of The Education Act, and LDSB By-Laws Article II and IV, and under the authority invested in me as the Secretary of the Board, I welcome everyone to the Annual Meeting of the Limestone District School Board for the term ending November 19, 2026. This evening Trustees will elect a Chair and a Vice-Chair to serve as Executive for the next year. I shall be the presiding officer of this Annual Meeting, pending the election of the Chair of the Board, and therefore call this meeting to order." <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Student Performance</h3>To open the Annual Board Meeting, Grades 7 and 8 students from the Calvin Park Public School Challenge program, led by teacher Catherine Tang, performed "Viva La Vida," by Coldplay on <img src="/images/79826ca8-da0b-4e0b-827c-eaa603baad69?fingerprint=ppb20260107212204" alt="Calvin Park PS Students Performing in LDSB Boardroom for 2026 Annual Board Meeting" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Annual Declaration of Involvement</h3>Director Burra: "Trustees of the Limestone District School Board are committed to accountability and transparency. The Trustee Code of Conduct states, 'Trustees shall declare any conflict of interest or involvement, financial or otherwise, between their personal life and/or business interests and their position on the Board.' In support of this, Trustees annually declare their ongoing involvement with agencies, boards, and committees in organizations outside of the Limestone District School Board and declare verbally at the Annual Meeting of the Board for inclusion in the minutes."<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Election of the Chair</h3>Karen McGregor was re-elected as Chair. Chair McGregor, who has been Chair since June 2025, represents LDSB schools in the Townships of Central Frontenac, Addington Highlands, and North Frontenac. “Trustees play a critical role as a bridge between the communities we serve and the Board, ensuring that families have a direct channel to raise local concerns, seek guidance and influence decisions that affect their children's education,” says Chair McGregor. “I am honoured to be re-elected as Chair for the coming year, to work with a Board of Trustees determined to make a positive difference in the lives of every student in our district.” <img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="Karen McGregor Portrait" width="277" height="359" style="width:277px;height:359px;display:inline-block"> Chair Karen McGregor<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Election of the Vice-Chair</h3>Tiffany Lloyd was elected as Vice-Chair. Vice-Chair Lloyd represents LDSB schools in the Town of Greater Napanee. "I’m honoured to serve as Vice-Chair, and I’m grateful for my colleagues’ confidence,” says Vice-Chair Lloyd. “I look forward to working together as we support our schools, listen to our communities, and make decisions that truly benefit the students and families we serve." <img src="/images/02ea62dd-f2f2-5bdf-8bf4-95704c83d5d1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="Tiffany Lloyd Portrait" width="274" height="355" style="width:274px;height:355px;display:inline-block"> Vice-Chair Tiffany Lloyd<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Nominations Committee Meeting - November 24, 2025</h2>Trustees gathered on November 24, 2025 to select which committees they wish to serve on. There are seven Statutory Committees, and four Special Committees. The following Trustees will serve on each committee:<h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: start;">Statutory Committees</h3>(a) Audit Committee (serving year 4 of 4-year term): (1) Trustee Elliott (2) Trustee Lloyd (3) Trustee Ruttan   (b) Awards Committee: (1)  Trustee Elliott (2)  Trustee McGregor (3)  Trustee Neill (4) Trustee Ruttan (Alternate)   (c) Special Education Advisory Committee (serving year 4 of 4-year term): (1) Trustee Lloyd (2) Trustee McGregor (3) Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (d) Environmental Sustainability Advisory Committee: (1) Trustee Morning (2) Trustee Scott (e) Parent Involvement Committee: (1) Trustee Godkin (2) Trustee Hutcheon (Alternate)   (f)  Indigenous Education Committee:   (1) Trustee Maracle (2) Trustee Hutcheon  (3) Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (g) Director’s Review Committee (June to June term): (1) Trustee McGregor (2) Trustee Lloyd (3) Trustee Elliott (4) Trustee Scott <h3 class="editor-heading-h3" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Special Committees</h3>(a)  Supervised Alternative Learning: (1) Trustee Morning (2)  Trustee Neill (Alternate)  (b)  Expulsion Hearing Committee/Disciplinary Hearing Committee Pool The following Trustees indicated that they would like to be placed in the Expulsion Hearing Committee/Disciplinary Hearing Committee Pool: (1) Trustee Elliott(2) Trustee Hutcheon (3) Trustee McGregor (4) Trustee Ruttan (5) Trustee Scott  (c) OPSBA (Term from June to June): Selection of the OPSBA Representative has been deferred to the January 14, 2026 Board meeting. Trustee McGregor will continue in her role until that time.   (d) Food Sharing Project: (1) Trustee Neill (2) Trustee Scott (Alternate)

2025-12-01 15:58:06.915 +0000 UTC

PIC Gathering with Director December 4, 2025

<img src="/images/bff4337c-478a-4c20-a057-a8a6e80ca7cb?fingerprint=ppb20251217014805" alt="Parent Involvement Committee Gathering with Director" width="584" height="730" style="width:584px;height:730px;display:inline-block">Join us for a special <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/parent-involvement-committee" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Parent Involvement Committee (PIC)</a> gathering with Krishna Burra, LDSB Director of Education. When: Thursday, December 4, 2025, 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.Where: In-person or onlineIn-person: 220 Portsmouth Avenue, Kingston, OntarioOnline: <a href="https://teams.microsoft.com/dl/launcher/launcher.html?url=%2F_%23%2Fl%2Fmeetup-join%2F19%3Ameeting_MmJlMGM0YWEtNDQ4NS00YzAxLWJhMmEtNjhjNmM5NDA0ZmRk%40thread.v2%2F0%3Fcontext%3D%257b%2522Tid%2522%253a%2522e1f4165f-ebae-4d82-a73c-a0de593830be%2522%252c%2522Oid%2522%253a%25222807506b-b7b9-4de9-8d10-c7f7c33103a9%2522%257d%26anon%3Dtrue&type=meetup-join&deeplinkId=49721d4d-f239-4e30-a5d3-f2d0a60ce03a&directDl=true&msLaunch=true&enableMobilePage=true&suppressPrompt=true" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Link to Attend</a>We look forward to seeing you there!

2025-11-25 16:21:00.653 +0000 UTC

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 24th

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Information for Tiger Families</h2> Dear Tiger Families, <img src="/images/8316be7c-2067-4a42-a6eb-125946b480db?fingerprint=ppb20251217014220" alt="2025November28" width="410" height="307" style="width:410px;height:307px;display:inline-block;float:right">It is hard to believe that there are only four weeks until the Winter Break. We have lots of fun activities planned in the lead up to the break. On Wednesday, December 10th, we will be welcoming families into the school from 5 pm to 7 pm for an evening of Winter Magic. Families will have the opportunity to tour the school and vote for their favourite classroom door decorations, complete a school wide scavenger hunt, enjoy treats and hot chocolate in the gym and go on a horse drawn carriage ride in the community. This event is completely free for families. We are looking forward to an opportunity to celebrate the incoming winter season with our community. We will be encouraging families to bring a non-perishable food item to donate if they are able.Our annual food drive will begin on Monday, December 1st and conclude on Friday, December 12th. Any families wishing to donate to the Food Drive should send the food items into the school and they will be collected in the hallway by the library. It would be helpful if families could ensure that the items they are sending in are not past the expiration date. Thank you in advance for your donations to this important cause.We are looking for donations of new or gently used mittens. Please send them in with your child or drop them off at the office. We appreciate any support that we can get so that we have a stock of mittens for those that need them.As always, please reach out to us if you have questions or need support.Take care,Krista Esford, Principal <img src="/images/e75f5f0f-b380-4696-aab0-6d03aebe51e7?fingerprint=ppb20251217015125" alt="2025December1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><img src="/images/2217496f-a032-4d7c-88e3-6f38ae49cd28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="2025October22" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2><img src="/images/fc9f9462-b480-4615-b760-4fe3183bab9d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="2025November13" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Odessa Lost and Found</h2> <img src="/images/8d5773c2-9701-4d0c-bf8a-f8b7dda2eb1e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="2025October23" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Important Links for Families</h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fodessapublicschool.entripyshops.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cesfordk%40limestone.on.ca%7C9249cf4f26894cf7037408ddf1373da3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638931941822133075%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecy5PgJbemRaTCQDcQW2cVBEJiBGMYvAWoHD3RV%2BZsI%3D&reserved=0" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Odessa Public School Spirit Wear eStore</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Loyalist Township Online Registration Guide</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">How to Order Hot Lunch through LunchBox</h2> <ie-document data-lexical-document-id="8c734ab0-3399-4236-840e-05e9a7800e18"></ie-document><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="6ee06426-d7c5-4020-9c16-469b0b20dea7"></ie-document><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Events for the Calendar </h2> Monday, November 24th- Bus Safety PresentationsThursday, November 27th- Photo Retake Day (Class Photos Taken Today)Thursday, December 4th- Junior Girls and Boys Volleyball Tournament at NDSSFriday, December 5th- Success Assembly at 8:30 am, Jingle Bell WalkWednesday, December 10th- Winter Magic Evening at Odessa (5pm to 7pm)Thursday, December 11th- STEM Field Trip (Grade 5)Friday, December 12th- ESS ConcertTuesday, December 16th- School Council Meeting at 6:30 pmWednesday, December 17th- Kid's Holiday ShopThursday, December 18th- Kids Holiday ShopFriday, December 19th- PJ DayMonday, December 22nd- First Day of Winter BreakMonday, January 5th- First Day Back to School <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Contact Us</h2> 10 North St.Odessa, Ontario, K0H2H0613-386-3022odesa@limestone.on.ca <img src="/images/50ffcf70-7ef1-46f4-a824-35d7c4f9a68e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="Odessa1" width="187" height="187" style="width:187px;height:187px;display:inline-block;float:right">Visit us on the web at <a href="https://www.odessa.limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">odessa.limestone.on.ca</a>

2025-11-24 13:12:18.629 +0000 UTC

Limestone District School Board Chair and Vice-Chair Elected for 2025-2026

<img src="/images/3b73f535-6db0-57a4-bb4f-a5bb6232f53e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013553" alt="" width="349" height="452" style="width:349px;height:452px;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/02ea62dd-f2f2-5bdf-8bf4-95704c83d5d1?fingerprint=ppb20251217013025" alt="" width="349" height="452" style="width:349px;height:452px;display:inline-block">Chair Karen McGregor (left) and Vice-Chair Tiffany Lloyd Limestone District School Board (LDSB) Chair Karen McGregor was re-elected to the role, and Trustee Tiffany Lloyd was elected to Vice-Chair at the Annual Meeting of the Board November 19, 2025. Trustees elect a Chair and Vice-Chair each year of their four-year mandate. Chair McGregor, who has been Chair since June 2025, represents LDSB schools in the Townships of Central Frontenac, Addington Highlands, and North Frontenac.  “Trustees play a critical role as a bridge between the communities we serve and the Board, ensuring that families have a direct channel to raise local concerns, seek guidance and influence decisions that affect their children's education,” says Chair McGregor. “I am honoured to be re-elected as Chair for the coming year, to work with a Board of Trustees determined to make a positive difference in the lives of every student in our district.” Vice-Chair Lloyd represents LDSB schools in the Town of Greater Napanee. "I’m honoured to serve as Vice-Chair, and I’m grateful for my colleagues’ confidence,” says Vice-Chair Lloyd. “I look forward to working together as we support our schools, listen to our communities, and make decisions that truly benefit the students and families we serve." Trustees will be selecting the committees they wish to serve on next week at the Nominations Committee Meeting Monday, November 24, 2025.

2025-11-21 20:25:34.383 +0000 UTC

Choices at 7 Program Information

The Limestone District School Board's Choices at 7 programs offer opportunities for students entering Grade 7 to participate in a variety of unique learning environments. Depending on the availability of places in the programs, students currently in Grade 7 may also apply to join a program for their Grade 8 year. The Choices at 7 programs that are offered include: <ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">ATLAS (Applying Technology for Learning, Aptitude, and Success) </li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Challenge (Gifted and Academic Enrichment Program) </li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">LEAP (Limestone Education through the Arts Program) </li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Extended French Immersion Program (for students entering Grade 7 only)</li></ul>If you are interested in finding out more about these programs, you are invited to attend the information nights that are being held at each site (dates and times are listed below). For detailed information about any of the Choices at 7 programs, please visit the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" class="editor-link">Choices at 7 web page.</a><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Application Process: </h2>The application form for the ATLAS Program, the Challenge Program, LEAP, and Extended French Immersion for September 2026 will be open from December 12, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. until January 12, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Application information and links will be available on the <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/choices_at_7" class="editor-link">Choices at 7 web page.</a><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Choices at 7 Information Nights: </h2><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Calvin Park Public School - ATLAS, Challenge, LEAP and CORE Choices at 7 Program Information Night</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Loughborough Public School - Challenge Program Choices at 7 Program Information Night</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, January 8, at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Ernestown Intermediate and Secondary School - Grade 7 and 8 Challenge Program Information Night</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">Harrowsmith Public School - Extended French Immersion Program Information Night</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Monday December 8, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">Module Vanier - Extended French Immersion Program Information Night</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">Module L’Acadie - Extended French Immersion Program Information Night</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem editor-nested-listitem"><ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.</li></ul></li></ul>If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to e-mail us at the address that appears below.Kind regards,Wilma Pettingill and Elizabeth SuriyuthLDSB Choices at 7 Registrars<a href="mailto:choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca" class="editor-link">choicesatseven@limestone.on.ca</a>

2025-11-20 21:00:49.731 +0000 UTC

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 17th, 2025 Copy

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Information for Tiger Families</h2> Dear Tiger Families, <img src="/images/4fc5e7a4-2099-4632-b096-bcd31acf35f5?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="2025November16" width="225" height="169" style="width:225px;height:169px;display:inline-block;float:right">Last week, Mrs. Brooks Grade 5/6 class organized and ran the Remembrance Day Assembly for the school. Our student leaders did a beautiful job creating an engaging assembly that delivered important Remembrance Day messages. Our Grade 6 students represented Odessa Public School and our community at the Wilton Cenataph.Odessa Public School prides itself on being a community focused school that welcomes everyone into our building. It is important that you check in at the office when you arrive at the school with your child or to pick them up. Moving forward, when a child is dropped off late, school staff will escort Kindergarten students to class and older students will be sent to their classroom on their own. For safety reasons, we are not to have family members in the hallways of the school while classes are in session. Thank you for understanding and respecting this important safety protocol.We are looking for donations of new or gently used mittens. Please send them in with your child or drop them off at the office. We appreciate any support that we can get so that we have a stock of mittens for those that need them.As always, please reach out to us if you have questions or need support.Take care,Krista Esford, Principal <img src="/images/b43fb036-91d0-43d0-a201-92c2de07b3d0?fingerprint=ppb20251217014701" alt="2025November27" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><img src="/images/2217496f-a032-4d7c-88e3-6f38ae49cd28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="2025October22" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2><img src="/images/fc9f9462-b480-4615-b760-4fe3183bab9d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="2025November13" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Odessa Lost and Found</h2> <img src="/images/8d5773c2-9701-4d0c-bf8a-f8b7dda2eb1e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="2025October23" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Important Links for Families</h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fodessapublicschool.entripyshops.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cesfordk%40limestone.on.ca%7C9249cf4f26894cf7037408ddf1373da3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638931941822133075%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecy5PgJbemRaTCQDcQW2cVBEJiBGMYvAWoHD3RV%2BZsI%3D&reserved=0" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Odessa Public School Spirit Wear eStore</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Loyalist Township Online Registration Guide</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">How to Order Hot Lunch through LunchBox</h2> <ie-document data-lexical-document-id="8c734ab0-3399-4236-840e-05e9a7800e18"></ie-document><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="6ee06426-d7c5-4020-9c16-469b0b20dea7"></ie-document><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Events for the Calendar </h2><img src="/images/3d75b68e-9f4e-48f7-aaa6-84931f518b83?fingerprint=ppb20251217013609" alt="2025November10" width="203" height="270" style="width:203px;height:270px;display:inline-block;float:right">Tuesday, November 18th- School Council Meeting @ 6:30 pm Thursday, November 20th- Grade 5/6 and Grade 6 STEM Field TripFriday, November 21st- Pink Shirt DayMonday, November 24th- Bus Safety PresentationsThursday, November 27th- Photo Retake Day (Class Photos Taken Today)Friday, December 5th- Jingle Bell WalkWednesday, December 10th- Winter Magic Evening at Odessa (5pm to 7pm) <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Contact Us</h2> 10 North St.Odessa, Ontario, K0H2H0613-386-3022odesa@limestone.on.ca <img src="/images/50ffcf70-7ef1-46f4-a824-35d7c4f9a68e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="Odessa1" width="187" height="187" style="width:187px;height:187px;display:inline-block;float:right">Visit us on the web at <a href="https://www.odessa.limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">odessa.limestone.on.ca</a>

2025-11-18 15:20:38.596 +0000 UTC

Student Census Survey Opt-Out Deadline Extended

Dear Families,As a follow-up to our previous messages about the upcoming Student Census survey, the deadline for families to opt out has been extended to the end of day on Monday, November 17. If you wish to opt your student(s) out, please contact your school principal. Families who have already opted out do not need to take any further action.Students who are opted out will not receive the survey in their e-mail inbox and will be provided with an alternative activity during the survey period.Available Student Census ResourcesThere are resources about the Student Census for families and students available on Limestone’s website, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_census" class="editor-link">About the Student Census</a> (including a video)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">A list of <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-frequently-asked-questions-faqs-" class="editor-link">Frequently Asked Questions and Answers</a> that includes information on privacy, confidentiality, and data use</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-introduction-to-student-and-family-guide-" class="editor-link">Student and Family Guide</a>  that explains the survey questions and why we ask them</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-2025-grades-4-to-6-questions" class="editor-link">Copies of the questions for the Grades 4 to 6 survey</a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-2025-grades-7-to-12-questions" class="editor-link">Copies of the questions for Grades 7 to 12 survey</a></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-student-and-family-question-guide" class="editor-link">Question Guide</a></li></ul> About the Student CensusThe Student Census is a voluntary survey for students in Grades 4 to 12. This important initiative aims to learn more about students' identities, academic achievement, and their experiences at school. By understanding more about the unique backgrounds, experiences, and needs of students, we can create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for everyone.The data is paired with academic information to help us understand what school is like for different groups of students.It is important to note that:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The survey is optional.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Responses are confidential.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Students can choose to answer as much or as little of the survey as they wish.</li></ul> Thank you,Alison McDonnellSuperintendent of Curriculum and Program Services: Early Years and Equity and Inclusion

2025-11-13 21:15:51.781 +0000 UTC

Reminder - Student Census Survey

Dear Families,A reminder to families that the See Yourself in Limestone Student Census is coming up the week of November 24 to 28.The Student Census is a voluntary survey for students in Grades 4 to 12. It gathers information about students’ identities and their experiences at school. This data is then paired with academic information to help us understand what school is like for different groups of students.It is important to note that:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">The survey is optional.</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">Responses are confidential.</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">Students can choose to answer as much or as little of the survey as they wish.</li></ul><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Reminder: Opt-Out Deadline is Friday, November 14</h2>If you prefer that your student not participate, you can opt them out by contacting your school principal. Students who are opted out will not receive the survey in their e-mail inbox and will be provided with an alternative activity during the survey period.Opt-out deadline: Friday, November 14, 2025<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Student Census Resources</h2>There are resources about the Student Census for families and students available on Limestone’s website, including:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student_census" class="editor-link">About the Student Census</a> (including a video)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">A list of <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-frequently-asked-questions-faqs-" class="editor-link">Frequently Asked Questions and Answers</a> that includes information on privacy, confidentiality, and data use</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-introduction-to-student-and-family-guide-" class="editor-link">Student and Family Guide</a>  that explains the survey questions and why we ask them</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-2025-grades-4-to-6-questions" class="editor-link">Copies of the questions for the Grades 4 to 6 survey</a></li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-2025-grades-7-to-12-questions" class="editor-link">Copies of the questions for Grades 7 to 12 survey</a></li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem"><a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/student-census-student-and-family-question-guide" class="editor-link">Question Guide</a></li></ul>Thank you for your continued partnership as we strive to foster a learning environment that prioritizes understanding the needs of all students and identifying gaps for improved service.Alison McDonnellSuperintendent of Curriculum and Program Services:Early Years and Equity and Inclusion

2025-11-10 21:30:22.219 +0000 UTC

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 10th, 2025

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Information for Tiger Families</h2> Dear Tiger Families,<img src="/images/d63d60d1-41f3-4e72-81fa-9849636a5330?fingerprint=ppb20251217014957" alt="2025November24" width="358" height="477" style="width:358px;height:477px;display:inline-block;float:right">Last week, we were excited to begin our BINGO club and Board Games Club for Grade 3 to 6 students. The Grade 3 and 4 students have these opportunities at lunch recess on Tuesday and Wednesday while the Grade 5 and 6 students play on Monday and Thursday. Mrs. Bush and I enjoyed offering these opportunities for students to collaborate and enjoy so fun together over lunch time. Our Winter Clubs will run from now until March Break. Thank you to the School Council for allowing us to use their Giant Connect 4 and Plinko games as part of the Board Games Club.Progress Reports will be sent home this week. These reports are a collection of information on students' progress to date and are meant to inform families of how their child is doing prior to the Term 1 Report Card that comes home in February. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your child's teacher to discuss their progress.Congratulations to Addison, Hannah, Kaitlyn, Molly and Sarah who all received the "Tigers in the Spotlight" award at our November Success Assembly. These students were recognized for their significant contribution to the school through volunteerism. Addison, Hannah and Kaitlyn have been helping with set up in the gym to ensure that the volleyball nets are up for all of the practices and taken down so that our primary students can enjoy their gym time. Molly and Sarah are much loved Kindergarten volunteers who spend lunches and recesses helping Mrs. Dafoe, Mrs. Grant, Mrs. McAuley and their students. We appreciate everything these wonderful students do to support our school!Odessa Public School prides itself on being a community focused school that welcomes everyone into our building. It is important that you check in at the office when you arrive at the school with your child or to pick them up. Moving forward, when a child is dropped off late, school staff will escort Kindergarten students to class and older students will be sent to their classroom on their own. For safety reasons, we are not to have family members in the hallways of the school while classes are in session. Thank you for understanding and respecting this important safety protocol.Please check School Day as the School Council is running a School Merchandise Sale for the next two weeks. All orders must be done through school day. There are some of the traditional items plus some new items that are available. More information will be coming home this week.As always, please reach out to us if you have questions or need support.Take care,Krista Esford, Principal <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Odessa Tigers in the Spotlight</h2> <img src="/images/3a5af930-f428-439a-9d61-aaccbedee6e9?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" alt="2025November26" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/45d14087-f20d-471e-8334-d1da51092c62?fingerprint=ppb20251217013647" alt="2025November22" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/629a3eab-d6a3-4d6d-a8a8-8ae8e2f9fe22?fingerprint=ppb20251217013923" alt="2025November1" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2"><img src="/images/2217496f-a032-4d7c-88e3-6f38ae49cd28?fingerprint=ppb20251217013324" alt="2025October22" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2><img src="/images/fc9f9462-b480-4615-b760-4fe3183bab9d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015319" alt="2025November13" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Odessa Lost and Found</h2> <img src="/images/8d5773c2-9701-4d0c-bf8a-f8b7dda2eb1e?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="2025October23" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Important Links for Families</h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fodessapublicschool.entripyshops.com%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cesfordk%40limestone.on.ca%7C9249cf4f26894cf7037408ddf1373da3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638931941822133075%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=ecy5PgJbemRaTCQDcQW2cVBEJiBGMYvAWoHD3RV%2BZsI%3D&reserved=0" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Odessa Public School Spirit Wear eStore</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.school-day.com/" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">School Day</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.loyalist.ca/media/lf4ps1su/autumn-guide.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">Loyalist Township Online Registration Guide</a></h2> <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">How to Order Hot Lunch through LunchBox</h2> <ie-document data-lexical-document-id="8c734ab0-3399-4236-840e-05e9a7800e18"></ie-document><ie-document data-lexical-document-id="6ee06426-d7c5-4020-9c16-469b0b20dea7"></ie-document><img src="/images/6dc0efb0-8b50-4cb1-a0a7-4c7cdea8623b?fingerprint=ppb20251217014029" alt="2025November3" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/3a66ab15-d9e5-403e-92a8-3389685fa5ac?fingerprint=ppb20251217013540" alt="2025November2" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> <img src="/images/36e4fb26-92b4-4db4-9e10-67f086dbdad9?fingerprint=ppb20251217013513" alt="2025November14" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/f62e8a0c-40eb-47b8-abc8-a86df445e04d?fingerprint=ppb20251217015242" alt="2025November21" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Events for the Calendar </h2> Tuesday, November 11th- Remembrance Day Assembly at 11 am<img src="/images/0e7956ba-5067-4783-8a2f-c1ee71eb60bd?fingerprint=ppb20251217013130" alt="2025November17" width="333" height="250" style="width:333px;height:250px;display:inline-block;float:right">Thursday, November 13th- Progress Reports Go HomeFriday, November 14th- PA DayTuesday, November 18th- Staff Meeting @ 2:30 pm,School Council Meeting @ 6:30 pmThursday, November 20th- Grade 5/6 and Grade 6 STEM Field TripFriday, November 21st- Pink Shirt DayMonday, November 24th- Bus Safety PresentationsThursday, November 27th- Photo Retake Day (Class Photos Taken Today)Friday, December 5th- Jingle Bell WalkWednesday, December 10th- Winter Magic Evening at Odessa (5pm to 7pm) <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Contact Us</h2> 10 North St.Odessa, Ontario, K0H2H0613-386-3022odesa@limestone.on.ca <img src="/images/50ffcf70-7ef1-46f4-a824-35d7c4f9a68e?fingerprint=ppb20251217013738" alt="Odessa1" width="187" height="187" style="width:187px;height:187px;display:inline-block;float:right">Visit us on the web at <a href="https://www.odessa.limestone.on.ca/" class="editor-link">odessa.limestone.on.ca</a>

2025-11-07 17:03:05.635 +0000 UTC

A Message from Southeast Public Health

Dear Families,We are sharing the following letter from Southeast Public Health, which contains important information for families:<hr>Dear parents, guardians and staff:RE: First Influenza A Confirmed Case of the SeasonPlease be advised that Southeast Public Health (SEPH) has received laboratory confirmation of the first case of influenza A for the 2025-2026 season. We are providing this information so that you will be able to take steps to ensure the best protection possible for yourself and your family.Influenza causes mild to severe illness and can lead to serious health complications, even in healthy children and adults. Immunization is the best way to prevent influenza; even in years when there is a strain mismatch, the flu vaccine will still offer some protection. The influenza vaccine (flu shot) is available free of charge to anyone who lives, works or goes to school in Ontario who is 6 months of age and over. Contact your health-care provider or local pharmacy for your influenza vaccine if your family has not yet been immunized. For children under 5 years of age who cannot receive their immunization from their health-care provider, <a href="https://southeastph.ca/health-topics/respiratory-season-vaccines/" class="editor-link">Southeast Public Health is offering clinics</a>.Next to immunization, the single most important way to prevent the spread of infection is to clean hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers should only be used for children if they are assisted and should be stored out of reach of young children.The symptoms of influenza include:<ul class="editor-list-ul"><li value="1" class="editor-listitem">fever (greater than 38.0°C/100.4 °F)</li><li value="2" class="editor-listitem">dry cough</li><li value="3" class="editor-listitem">chills</li><li value="4" class="editor-listitem">headache</li><li value="5" class="editor-listitem">muscle aches</li><li value="6" class="editor-listitem">loss of appetite</li><li value="7" class="editor-listitem">sore throat</li><li value="8" class="editor-listitem">runny nose</li></ul> Young children may also experience nausea and vomiting with the above symptoms.If your child is feeling unwell, please keep them home until they are fever-free and their symptoms have improved for at least 24 hours (or 48 hours if they’ve had vomiting or diarrhea). When your child returns to school, we encourage them to wear a well-fitting mask for 10 days from when their symptoms started to help keep others healthy. To learn more about how to protect yourself, your family, and your community from respiratory illnesses, visit <a href="https://www.ontario.ca/page/protection-respiratory-illnesses" class="editor-link">Ontario’s respiratory illness page</a>.Regards,Southeast Public Health<a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/6bda65e0-3a9d-4d62-a1ab-8bec162cbe25/2025-11-05-influenza-letter-for-schools.pdf?fingerprint=ppb20251217014016" class="editor-link">A PDF version of this letter is available online</a>.

2025-11-06 21:00:05.158 +0000 UTC

Group of LDSB representatives and more at the Collaborative Care Initiative launch

Limestone and KCHC Launch Student Support Program Backed by Community Foundation Grant

<img src="/images/1ce7164c-79ab-41b7-9799-15988886f670?fingerprint=ppb20251217013257" alt="Group of LDSB representatives and more at the Collaborative Care Initiative launch" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">The Limestone District School Board and the Kingston Community Health Centre (KCHC) are part of the new Collaborative Care Initiative, a support model for students facing challenges at school and accessing community care, featuring integrated care and educational interventions. This project is one of four new community initiatives funded by the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area, with the help of the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul Community Impact Fund. The four new community initiatives were officially announced on October 7, 2025, at Providence Care Hospital.   “We are delighted that the efforts of so many individuals and organizations have led us to this opportunity to establish the Collaborative Care Initiative and partnership,” says Deborah Thompson, Limestone District School Board System Principal – Educational Services. “This unique and integrated approach will support students and their families to access services and programs through a streamlined and collaborative process.”  “We deeply value the opportunity to learn, work, and partner with the team at KCHC and other partners in the community to make a difference over the next three years and beyond.” An article about these community initiatives can be found on The Kingston Whig-Standard website: <a href="https://www.thewhig.com/news/local-news/community-foundation-for-kingston-area-announces-1-5-million-multi-year-grant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" class="editor-link" dir="ltr">Community Foundation for Kingston & Area announces multi-year grant | The Kingston Whig Standard</a> <img src="/images/8cfab1ec-d6b9-4c45-8150-688a50225001?fingerprint=ppb20251217014314" alt="Laura Conboy Speaks at CFKA Community Collaboration Across Generations" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/40d7e7f1-6671-4b35-9bac-fc837db835f9?fingerprint=ppb20251217013621" alt="Nicola Dillard Speaks at CFKA Community Collaboration Across Generations" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">All photos provided by the Community Foundation for Kingston and Area.

2025-11-06 18:47:25.06 +0000 UTC

Please see news below from our school and across the Limestone District School Board:

News From the Tiger’s Den - December 1st, 2025

Boardroom Briefs: November 2025

PIC Gathering with Director December 4, 2025

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 24th

Limestone District School Board Chair and Vice-Chair Elected for 2025-2026

Choices at 7 Program Information

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 17th, 2025 Copy

Student Census Survey Opt-Out Deadline Extended

Reminder - Student Census Survey

News From the Tiger’s Den - November 10th, 2025

A Message from Southeast Public Health

Limestone and KCHC Launch Student Support Program Backed by Community Foundation Grant