News

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Grand Erie Finalizes Transition Deadlines for Elementary and Secondary Students Planning to Switch Modes of Learning

The next and final opportunity for parents/guardians and students to make a change to their current mode of learning amid the pandemic will be February 2021, a decision made to best support the continuity of learning for students and staff. 

“This has been a very unpredictable time, but after reviewing the timelines for the remainder of the school year, the hope is that this offers families a chance to switch from either in-class or online learning if they wish, while ensuring as much stability as possible,” said JoAnna Roberto, Director of Education. “Despite the challenges this year has presented, our educators’ efforts – both in the classroom and in the virtual space – have continued to focus on students’ safety, achievement and well-being, and we commend them for that.”

Families wishing to make the change from in-class to online, or vice versa, can expect communication from their child’s school, with a link shared in order to provide a final declaration. The deadline for secondary students is January 6, to begin classes in the new mode of learning for the start of Quadmester 3 on February 2. The deadline for elementary students is January 13, with a February 16 start date in the new mode of learning. 

Roberto_JoAnna-wType.jpg“Understandably, should extenuating circumstance arise after the deadline passes, parents are encouraged to contact their child’s principal,” said Roberto.  

There are currently more than 4,500 students in Grand Erie’s Virtual Academy. The Board represents nearly 18,000 students in 58 elementary schools and more than 7,300 students in 14 secondary schools within the City of Brantford and the Counties of Brant, Haldimand, and Norfolk as well as secondary students from Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Director JoAnna Roberto shared this message with Grand Erie students, families and staff on December 1, 2020. 

Healthy Bites Success for Graham Bell-Victoria Students

Graham Bell-Victoria School has been presented with a GOLD award of recognition and achievement in the Healthy Bites Program. The staff and students have worked hard and enjoyed the “fruits” of their labour as they have now been recognized with GOLD!

Throughout the year, Sonia Martin, school health nurse with the Brant County Health Unit, has lead our staff and students in a variety of healthy eating awareness activities. These included a Mystery Fruit and Vegetable contest, a trivia question in the monthly newsletter, and healthy fruit and vegetable snacks every Friday. These tasty treats, prepared by the grade 4-5 class were a big hit and helped us learn about the benefits of eating healthy.

Next year the program will be expanded to Healthy Steps and Healthy Bites, a program in which we will learn about and practice healthy eating and healthy activity. Congratulations, Graham Bell!

 

Voluntary Aboriginal Self-Identification

The Grand Erie District School Board recognizes the importance of school success for Aboriginal students. Our dedicated staff members are committed to improving services and programs for Aboriginal students attending school in the Board.

With a goal to improve the school experience for all Aboriginal students, the Board encourages the development of strong partnerships with Aboriginal families, communities and organizations, both on and off the reserve.

Through the Voluntary Aboriginal Self-Identification process, Aboriginal parents and students will have access to additional support services, including educational, social, and emotional supports that focus and foster Aboriginal identity, culture and values.

There are three categories of Voluntary Aboriginal Self-Identification – First Nation, Métis, or Inuit.

Your child may bring a GEDSB Voluntary Aboriginal Self-Identification form home or if not, you can contact your child’s school to receive a form. You can also, visit the Aboriginal Education section under the Program tab at www.granderie.ca for more information and a copy of the Voluntary Self-Identification form.