Get Involved/School Council

PRINCIPAL’S UPDATE

• School enrollment is approximately 208 students.
• Supervision challenges continue following a reduction in educational assistant support.
• A student leadership initiative has been implemented during recess, with older students assisting younger students and helping organize games and activities.
• The program has increased student engagement, strengthened the school community, and encouraged positive attendance.

PLAYGROUND & RECESS DISCUSSION

• Concerns were raised regarding opportunities for students of different age groups to play
  together.
• Playground restrictions have been adjusted to allow more interaction while maintaining safety.
• Student leaders receive training and support to help them succeed in their roles.
• Parking lot safety measures remain in place to ensure safe traffic flow.

HOT LUNCH PROGRAM

• The LunchBox online ordering system was reviewed.
• Families can order, modify, or cancel lunch orders online before the established deadlines.
• A variety of food options, including gluten-free choices, are available.
• Additional menu options may be considered in the future.
• Discussion included food delivery procedures and increasing parent registration.

DISTRICT SCHOOL COUNCIL / PARENT INVOLVEMENT COMMITTEE UPDATE

• Board-wide attendance concerns were discussed.
• Parent engagement initiatives and grant opportunities were highlighted.
• A collaborative parent group is being established to share ideas and support school improvement across the district.

MEAT STICK FUNDRAISER

• The top individual seller will receive a gift card.
• The top-selling class will receive a class reward.
• Discussion focused on improving order tracking and distribution procedures.
• The fundraiser is scheduled to conclude on November 5, 2025.

SCHOOL JERSEYS

• Planning continues for new school jerseys and shorts.
• Discussion included:
  – Student participation in the design process.
  – A possible design contest.
  – Fundraising opportunities through student voting.
  – Preference for high-quality, durable jerseys.
  – Ordering approximately 30 jerseys and shorts in a variety of sizes.

TREASURER’S REPORT

• Current Parent Council balance: $970.19

NEXT MEETING

Wednesday, November 26, 2025
6:00 p.m.
Queen Victoria Public School

Principal’s Update

• Parent-teacher interviews were more detailed this year due to new assessment tools.
• Staff completed student support meetings to ensure learning needs and responsibilities were clearly identified.
• Jersey Day fundraising supports nutrition programs, hygiene products, and other student needs.
• The nutrition program continues to be successful, serving approximately 20–30 students daily with strong community support.

Hot Lunch Program

• Some families experienced difficulties ordering due to mandatory allergy information fields.
• Current offerings include pizza and Subway, with additional options being explored.
• Distribution improvements are being made based on volunteer feedback.

Attendance Concerns

• Ongoing concerns were raised regarding students arriving late to school.
• Missing the morning literacy block can negatively impact student learning.
• Factors discussed included family schedules, technology use, and childcare challenges.
• Future childcare partnership opportunities were explored as a possible support for families.

Homework Discussion

• Council discussed balancing meaningful homework with manageable expectations.
• Reading fluency practice was identified as a priority.
• Members emphasized preparing students for future academic expectations while avoiding excessive workloads.

Volunteers & Community Engagement

• A small group of volunteers continues to carry much of the workload, creating concerns about volunteer burnout.
• Advance notice of events was identified as a way to encourage greater parent participation.
• Volunteer screening requirements remain in place.

Grade 7–8 Transition to High School

• Increased collaboration between elementary and secondary staff is supporting student transitions.
• Intermediate classrooms are adopting structures that better reflect high school expectations.
• Students are participating in new rotary-style learning experiences, including music instruction.

Fundraising Update

• The meat stick fundraiser raised $4,380.
• Prize winners were determined based on sales totals.
• Remaining inventory will be used for future fundraising opportunities.

Jerseys & Spirit Wear

• Design forms were distributed but had not yet been returned.
• Ideas were discussed to increase student and family engagement in the jersey design process.

Key Discussion Themes

• Improving student attendance and morning readiness.
• Supporting families through nutrition and childcare initiatives.
• Expanding volunteer participation.
• Strengthening literacy supports.
• Preparing students for the transition to high school.
• Continuing fundraising efforts to support school initiatives.

Next Meeting

January 7, 2026

Principal’s Update

• School has settled back into routines following the holiday break.
• The school secretary is currently on medical leave, with supply staff providing office support.
• Morning announcements have transitioned to a flexible Google Slides format that teachers can access at appropriate times.
• Parent Council will create a Google Slide to share upcoming council news and events with families.

Jersey Design Contest

• A significant increase in jersey design submissions was received after the holidays.
• Council discussed selecting designs that align with school colours and ensuring voting remains anonymous.
• Student artwork and polished AI-inspired versions will be displayed together to celebrate student creativity.
• The submission deadline will likely be extended to encourage additional participation.

Parent Engagement Grant

• A $500 Parent Engagement Grant is available and must be used by January 26.
• The Chair will complete and submit the grant application.
• Track and Field Day was discussed as a potential family engagement event.
• Council also reviewed an additional barrier-reduction grant opportunity and will determine eligibility.

Grade 8 Graduation

• School staff will organize the graduation ceremony and field trip.
• Parent Council will support the celebration with decorations, refreshments, music, and student activities.
• Plans include consulting Grade 8 students through Mr. McGlade and potentially forming a student Grad Committee.
• Council discussed supporting students who may require assistance obtaining graduation attire through community partnerships or donations.

Future Fundraising

• Council explored several fundraising opportunities for the remainder of the school year,
  including:
  – Kernels Popcorn
  – Purdy’s Chocolates
  – Greeting Cards
  – Battery Recycling Drive
• Future fundraising efforts will focus on supporting field trips and long-term playground improvements, as jerseys are already fully funded.

School Board Update

• Council representatives shared ideas with the Director during the recent School Board meeting.
• Council advocacy contributed to the creation of a School Messenger communication for families.

Round Table Discussion

• Members discussed ongoing crossing guard availability and student safety concerns.
• Visibility issues near crossings and communication with the responsible authorities were identified as priorities.
• Ensuring families are informed about crossing guard absences remains important.

Next Meeting

Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

1. School Updates

– Math textbooks reintroduced; focus on explicit instruction and foundational skills.

– Staffing updates: New secretary starting March 2; new library clerk in place; staff transitions at March Break.

– Candy Gram fundraiser was successful – thank you to council members.

2. Financial Update

– Current council balance: $4,229.02 (includes account consolidation).

– Candy Gram deposits pending due to secretary transition.

– Increased use of School Cash Online moving forward.

3. Team Jerseys

– Jersey option #2 selected with revised design.

– Includes school logo and ‘Kodiaks’ above back number.

– Approx. $110 per set; ordering 20–25 sets.

– Target delivery: late April.

4. Parent Engagement Grant

– $800 available (must be fully used).

– Exploring June event at Ampere; food and possible take-home activity.

5. Grade 8 Graduation

– Committee meeting March 9 at 3:15 PM (library).

– Students to provide input on décor, food, music, and apparel.

6. Playground & Fundraising

– Long-term goal: new playground equipment ($60,000–$100,000+).

– Grants under review; subcommittee needed.

– Maintenance costs must be factored into planning.

7. Other Updates

– Student Census begins March 3 – encourage participation.

– Board focus: AI awareness, communication skills, and student preparedness.

– Hot lunches accessed via School Cash Online (Lunchbox tab).

Next Meeting – Wednesday, March 25, 2026

Principal’s Update

• Grade 8 students were consulted on graduation trip ideas and selected Medieval Times as their preferred destination. The school is exploring travelling by GO Train to reduce transportation costs while providing students with a new experience.
• Year-end trips will continue to focus on giving students meaningful experiences and new experiences within the community.
• Council will continue its annual contribution of $300 per class to help offset transportation costs for year-end trips.
• Andrea Medhurst has joined the school as the new secretary and is reviewing communication systems, hot lunch programs, and school processes.
• The school is still awaiting a permanent library clerk.
• Student jerseys have been ordered and are expected to arrive in early April.

Community Engagement Event

• Council discussed hosting a community event in June featuring food, games, community partners, and family activities.
• Ideas included a touch-a-truck, police and fire participation, library and community organization booths, and activities led by Yellow Vest student leaders.
• Planning will continue through the council group, with Friday, June 19 identified as the tentative event date.

Fundraisers

• Big Box of Cards: 82 boxes sold.
• Kernels Popcorn: Fundraiser approved for April 8–29, 2026.
• Burns Candy: Council agreed to move forward with a Burns Candy fundraiser after hearing positive feedback from other schools and organizations.

Playground Project

• Council confirmed that playground fundraising will be its long-term priority.
• A sample playground design and estimated cost of approximately $100,000 were reviewed.
• The Ontario Trillium Foundation Capital Grant was identified as a potential funding source.
• Next steps include obtaining updated playground quotes, researching accessibility requirements, creating a planning committee, and continuing fundraising efforts.

Round Table

• Volunteers discussed supporting the school’s food program while a regular volunteer recovers from surgery.
• Additional volunteers offered to assist with food pickups when needed.

Next Meeting

Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Principal’s Update

• Field trips are being booked, including the Toronto Zoo and other year-end activities.
• Volunteer vulnerable sector checks must be current for the school year.
• New jerseys have arrived and were worn by the intermediate boys’ basketball team, who won their tournament.
• Accessibility upgrades are planned, including chair lifts, widened doors, and a new kindergarten bathroom.
• JK registration numbers are strong for next year.

Construction and Safety Concerns

• Road and sidewalk construction around the school is creating safety concerns.
• Council discussed traffic, blocked sidewalks, bus access, and safe walking routes for students.

Parent Engagement Event

• Event date: June 19, 1:00–3:00 p.m.
• Council is planning a community/vendor area with local businesses and organizations.
• Possible features include touch-a-truck, fire truck, police, dunk tank, and community partners.
• Layout may need to change due to construction and limited parking.

Graduation

• Grade 8 graduation is scheduled for June 24, 2026.
• Doors open at 6:00 p.m., ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m.
• Council discussed food options such as pizza, snacks, cupcakes, and popcorn.
• Allergies and final food plans will be confirmed.

Kernels Popcorn Fundraiser

• Orders are due and volunteers will help organize totals.
• Pickup will be scheduled once final numbers are confirmed.
• A custom “Burns Kernels” logo was created.
• A class prize/pizza party was discussed for top sellers.

Playground Project

• Council reviewed playground options and current estimated cost of $120,000.
• OTF grant and school board funding are being explored.
• Accessibility, surfacing, borders, swing replacement, and maintenance costs were discussed.
• Council will continue working with Brad and Tracy on quotes and planning.

Fundraising Ideas

• Ideas discussed included battery collection, bottle drive, chocolate/fudge sales, dance-a-thon,
  and local donations.
• Council will continue exploring support from local businesses and community groups.

Yellow Vest Program

• Students are helping at recess and earning tokens for their volunteer time.
• The program also supports leadership and financial literacy.

Action Items

• Confirm event partners and layout.
• Continue playground quotes and grant planning.
• Confirm graduation food and allergy needs.
• Share jersey update on school social media.
• Review fundraising options for next year.

Next Meeting

May 26, 2026

Principal’s Update

• The school is entering one of the busiest times of the year with EQAO testing, assessments, report cards, field trips, and year-end activities.
• The Principal thanked Parent Council for its continued involvement and highlighted the positive collaboration between school staff and families.
• The school community continues to grow with strong parent engagement and support.

Fundraising

• Burns Bulk Food orders are due Monday, June 1, with pickup taking place at the back of the school.
• Council reviewed ideas for the 2026–2027 fundraising calendar, including:
  – Kernels Popcorn
  – Meat Sticks
  – Boston Pizza fundraising nights
  – Chocolate fundraiser
  – Krispy Kreme (to be investigated)
• Kernels Popcorn was identified as an excellent fundraiser to launch early in September due to its success this year.
• Council discussed the possibility of offering Kernels throughout the school year using School Cash Online.
• Meat Stick fundraising will continue despite supplier price increases.

Grade 8 Graduation

• Graduation has been rescheduled to Tuesday, June 23, 2026.
• Approximately 25 Grade 8 students will be graduating.
• The celebration will focus on a casual social event rather than a formal dance.
• Parent Council approved purchasing:
  – Pizza
  – Pop and water
• Council members volunteered to donate additional items including cupcakes, cookies and snacks.
• Decorations will follow the school colours of blue and yellow.
• Reusable decorations, streamers, balloons and a photo backdrop will be purchased for future years.
• Staff will investigate supporting any graduating students who may require assistance with
  graduation attire through donated clothing.

Playground Project

• Council received an update following a playground inspection.
• Existing swings and the baseball diamond will be removed due to safety concerns.
• The total playground replacement project is estimated at approximately $200,000.
• Council continues pursuing:
  – Community donations
  – Business sponsorships
  – Grant opportunities
• The school website now includes a direct donation option for the playground fund.
• Council is preparing sponsorship letters for families and local businesses.
• Additional fundraising ideas include:
  – Car show
  – Lemonade stand
  – Bake sale
  – Trunk sale
  – Smile Cookie campaign
• Staff shared concerns regarding one proposed climbing structure, particularly around accessibility and supervision. Additional equipment options will continue to be reviewed before a final decision is made.

Parent Engagement Event

• Parent Engagement Day remains scheduled for Friday, June 19, 2026.
• Confirmed participants include:
  – Fire Department
  – Police Services (pending emergency calls)
• Community organizations continue to be contacted, including:
  – Compass EarlyON
  – Boys and Girls Club
  – Academy Theatre
  – Boy Scouts
• Due to nearby road construction, Council will communicate with the construction contractor
  regarding safety during the event.
• The event will feature organized activity stations to improve supervision, including:
  – Fire truck
  – Police vehicle
  – Dunk tank
  – Bubble and chalk station
  – Dance party
  – Obstacle course
  – Track and field activities
  – Parachute games
  – Trike races
  – Possible inflatable obstacle course
• Students will rotate through stations in organized groups with staff and volunteers.
• Freezies or popsicles were selected as the preferred treat due to ease of distribution.
• Pizza will again be provided for lunch.
• Council discussed providing a small take-home item such as a school magnet or commemorative ribbon for students and families.

Round Table

• Parent Engagement letters are ready to be distributed to community organizations.
• A digital version will also be shared with staff for posting on Seesaw.
• Council is compiling a list of local businesses and organizations to approach for playground donations.
• Local recreation and summer program information will also be shared with families where possible.

Action Items

• Finalize Burns Bulk Food orders.
• Confirm September fundraising schedule.
• Purchase Grade 8 graduation decorations and finalize volunteers.
• Continue playground grant applications and sponsorship outreach.
• Finalize Parent Engagement Day activity stations and volunteer assignments.
• Confirm community organization participation.
• Investigate school magnets and commemorative ribbons.
• Share Parent Engagement information with families through Seesaw and school communication channels.

Next Meeting

Tuesday, June 16, 2026