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Newsletter #26 - 3/13/26

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">JR Henderson Weekly Update #26 - March 13th, 2026<img src="/images/ad31b7d3-7de5-455c-be1f-b4fe1ceb08c0" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 10 060314" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2>Good afternoon Henderson Families, As we cruise through March, there’s a real sense that things are changing. March Break is almost here, bringing a chance to slow down, recharge, and spend time with family. With the rain arriving, we can also feel spring beginning to make its way in. At school, learning continues to be our focus. Our students and staff remain engaged and committed each day, and we’re proud of the great learning happening in classrooms across the school. Today’s newsletter highlights some of the wonderful work taking place at Henderson.Dressing for the Weather Please ensure Hawks are dressed for the weather, as the yard is muddy and puddles are aplenty. If you require any outdoor gear, please email jrhen@limestone.on.ca and we would happily send home clean items home. We have lots to share - splash pants, snow pants, spring jackets ad more. March Break Reminder As a reminder, Henderson will be closed from March 16th to March 20th for March Break. See you back at Henderson on Monday March 23rd. We wish all families a safe, restful, and enjoyable March Break.Book Character Day - Thursday March 12th On Thursday, March 12th we held our annual ‘Dress as Your Favourite Book Character Day’!  We were beyond impressed with the outstanding costumes. Judging was no easy feat. We always adore seeing the great effort and we love promoting literacy from different angles.<img src="/images/0a433108-0cdb-493c-a059-04080109caa9" alt="2DE7CEF5 84CB 4999 BD4B C198731B0DEB" width="511" height="368" style="width:511px;height:368px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/f0f4bc32-c22f-4ba1-ad05-91056cd0e583" alt="IMG 0830" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/24ca6ace-fe66-460e-bdc8-7791a849c81d" alt="IMG 0813" width="255" height="340" style="width:255px;height:340px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/47ea3a13-9899-47c5-97b5-9200424cb685" alt="IMG 0805" width="257" height="342" style="width:257px;height:342px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/68e7e565-affc-42aa-98f3-aa5a2ea5e456" alt="IMG 0857" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> Grade 8 Graduation - Save the Date We are pleased to announce our Grade 8 Graduation date. Graduation for Grade 8s will be held on Monday June 22nd. It will take place in the Henderson gymnasium. Doors will open at 4:30pm and the ceremony starts at 5pm. Grade 6 Celebration of Learning - Save the Date We are also pleased to announce our Grade 6 Celebration of Learning date and time. This will take place in the Henderson gymnasium on Tuesday June 23rd. Doors will open at 4:30pm and the ceremony starts at 5pm. The celebration will last approximately 40 minutes, then students are free to leave with their families. Indigenous Learning Many classes worked with our Indigenous teacher, Gillianne Mundell looking at Moon of the Crusted Snow teachings. We sampled winter medicines made into teas, smudged using sage and learned the story of gijigijiaaneshiinh (chickadee) and the tamarack and cedar trees. We ended our time felting beautiful birds. Thanks, Mme Mundell for sharing your knowledge with us!<img src="/images/dbd0f98a-e6c9-454f-933f-c4559c1e976f" alt="IMG 4165" width="274" height="365" style="width:274px;height:365px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/c035b05d-f2e2-4dc0-a7e0-7f12d41c2375" alt="IMG 4166" width="275" height="367" style="width:275px;height:367px;display:inline-block">Upcoming Guest Speaker We are delighted to announce that we have a motivational guest speaker and athlete coming March 26th to speak to Grade 4 through 8 classes named Connor Vreeken. Connor will talk with our students about his journey as a Kingston athlete - from the Henderson area! - who went on to play sport at the professional level. He will share his story, goal setting, and then get on the court for some basketball skills. More photos to come after March Break!Sincere Thanks! We sold 210 bags of popcorn for this year's IST popcorn fundraiser. We truly appreciate your support! Funds raised will go towards supportive our intensive support classroom to purchase educational resources and activities. <img src="/images/da2e8c10-777c-41f0-a898-cf9c7492520f" alt="IMG 9601" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Attendance Reminder As a reminder, attendance is important and is a key indicator of student success. We are always interested in working with families where attendance is low to find creative strategies to overcome barriers. Please reach out if we can support in any way. <img src="/images/0570ce31-415e-41dc-b1bc-1056ec9d3a26" alt="0bcfcbb7 1504 4529 882f 6aac" width="339" height="339" style="width:339px;height:339px;display:inline-block">Kindergarten Registration It's already that time of the year! We are delighted to let families know that our Kindergarten registration process is underway for 2026/2027. See <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/news/kindergarten-registration-is-now-open-2026?hash=jrL25ld3Mva2luZGVyZ2FydGVuLXJlZ2lzdHJhdGlvbi1pcy1ub3ctb3Blbi0yMDI2" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a> for more information. Please spread the word about the great things happening at Henderson. We saw increased Kinder enrolment last year and want to keep this going!<img src="/images/5a3a733f-91e5-4579-8bde-24550aee641d" alt="IMG 4164" width="257" height="343" style="width:257px;height:343px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/1e2b5b14-8638-4b90-a2f3-90e17eebc490" alt="IMG 4163" width="258" height="345" style="width:258px;height:345px;display:inline-block">Hot Lunch Reminder As a reminder, if you haven't yet, be sure to order hot lunch through <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lunchboxorders.net%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cbrennanka%40limestone.on.ca%7C178ff4582eee49c489c408ddfc369837%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638944033663623995%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=GjaiwEJlcTI0r5M9tfGTSOqzH%2BvsRG8nKpB9vcNaaY4%3D&reserved=0" title="https://www.lunchboxorders.net" class="editor-link">https://www.lunchboxorders.net</a>. We are offering subs on Tuesdays and pizza on Thursdays. Money raised from hot lunch goes directly back into our school community to support athletics, learning materials, student initiatives and more. Orders are due Sunday at noon for the following week. Finally, if buses are cancelled because of the weather, hot lunch will be cancelled as well. If you have questions, please email <a href="mailto:jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com</a>School Council  The next School Council meeting is on Wednesday March 25th at 6:30pm. Free childcare will be available. Don’t forget - here’s the School Council email address: <a href="mailto:JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com</a> School Council looks forward to hearing feedback and voices from all Henderson community members. Finally, School Council minutes can be found <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/school-councils" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a>.<img src="/images/067bca33-fd5e-4357-a812-c4a23f0e128f" alt="sfasdas" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Have a great weekend, Hawks!Mme Brennan, Mme Rodé and the JR Henderson Staff<table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 700px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Important Dates: Monday March 16th to Friday March 20th - March Break (school closed) Friday April 3rd - Public Holiday - School Closed Monday April 6th - Public Holiday - School Closed Tuesday April 14th - Kindergarten concert Wednesday April 15th - Grade 1 to 3 Spring concert Thursday April 16th - Grade 4 to 8 Spring concert Thursday April 30th - Board Game Night at Henderson Thursday May 28th - Spring Fling! Save the date: Monday June 22nd - Grade 8 Graduation starts at 5pm Tuesday June 23rd - Grade 6 Celebration of Learning starts at 5pm</td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:55 to 9:15 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:15 to 10:55 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:55 to 11:35 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:35 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:15 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:55 to 3:35 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr></tbody></table>

2026-03-13 09:57:39.434 +0000 UTC

Newsletter #25 - 3/6/26

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">JR Henderson Weekly Update #25 - March 6th, 2026<img src="/images/ad31b7d3-7de5-455c-be1f-b4fe1ceb08c0" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 10 060314" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2>Good afternoon Henderson Families, It was amazing to see the sun peaking out and warm air moving in. It seems, just maybe, that those cold, cold days are behind us! March Break Reminder As a reminder, Henderson will be closed from March 16th to March 20th for March Break. Book Character Day - Thursday March 12th One of our favourite dress-up days of the year is quickly approaching!  On Thursday, March 12th we will hold our annual ‘Dress as Your Favourite Book Character Day’!  Come dressed in a costume inspired by one of your favourite characters from a book. There will be prizes awarded for the most unique, creative and fun costumes.  We can’t wait to see all of the characters in the classrooms and halls on March 12th!<img src="/images/c4c02b8e-d785-44d4-baea-ef01949f28cc" alt="character" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Upcoming Guest Speaker We are delighted to announce that we have a motivational guest speaker and athlete coming March 26th to speak to Grade 4 through 8 classes named Connor Vreeken. Connor will talk with our students about his journey as a Kingston athlete - from the Henderson area! - who went on to play sport at the professional level. He will share his story, goal setting, and then get on the court for some basketball skills. More photos to come after March Break!🍿 Second Annual Popcorn Fundraiser for Our Intensive Support Classroom!🍿 We’re excited to kick off our second annual popcorn fundraiser in support of our Intensive Support Classroom. On Thursday March 12th, we will be doing our second annual IST (intensive support room) popcorn fundraiser. Monday raised from this fundraiser will go towards purchasing educational materials for our students with complex learning needs. For just $2.50 per bag, you can enjoy a tasty treat while helping us purchase essential supplies that support communication, sensory needs, hands‑on learning, and meaningful engagement for our students. The item is available for purchase on School Day and the final day to purchase is Tuesday March 10th. Every bag sold directly benefits our classroom and helps create a supportive, enriching environment where every student can thrive. Thank you for helping our efforts truly "pop".<img src="/images/fcd5a830-786a-4e71-ac35-4d4eae758c8c" alt="hhh" width="354" height="354" style="width:354px;height:354px;display:inline-block"> Specialist High Skills Major On Wednesday, the grade 6/7 class visited FSS to learn about the four Specialist High Skills Major programs offered: Construction, Business, Health and Wellness, and Arts and Culture. They took part in workshops lead by the high school students and their teachers where they generated business plans, learnt about technology used in health care, participated in yoga, build wooden phone stands, and created balloon animals.<img src="/images/2ba2cc17-0f73-473a-8cd5-df558a088ded" alt="IMG 0605" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/ee936f60-f998-4d73-ad40-9ea9379cf36f" alt="IMG 0613" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Resources from our SST Team Each month, our amazing SST Team, Ms Caldwell and Ms Adamson, will share resources to support learning at home. We hope you take the time to review these resources and, when possible, engage in the learning at home :)<img src="/images/3707be22-276e-4605-8cca-3ff8988885f7" alt="Designer (2)" width="477" height="716" style="width:477px;height:716px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/8fe7732f-a93e-41e9-945c-472dc6719601" alt="Parent Literacy Activities for Parent Newsletter (1)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Southeast Public Health Update A positive relationship with food plays an important role in both mental and physical health, and we encourage you to review the below material. <img src="/images/050af893-d0c2-41b8-8090-626b7bb91d85" alt="2026 02 05 Healthy Relationship with Food Body Newsletter Insert Elementary" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/72968cd7-8acb-46e0-8aeb-0f41969b88dc" alt="IMG 4105" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/7481de4d-d450-4ca1-8274-be8f10d95f77" alt="IMG 4104" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Attendance Reminder As a reminder, attendance is important and is a key indicator of student success. We are always interested in working with families where attendance is low to find creative strategies to overcome barriers. Please reach out if we can support in any way. <img src="/images/0570ce31-415e-41dc-b1bc-1056ec9d3a26" alt="0bcfcbb7 1504 4529 882f 6aac" width="339" height="339" style="width:339px;height:339px;display:inline-block">Kindergarten Registration It's already that time of the year! We are delighted to let families know that our Kindergarten registration process is underway for 2026/2027. See <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/news/kindergarten-registration-is-now-open-2026?hash=jrL25ld3Mva2luZGVyZ2FydGVuLXJlZ2lzdHJhdGlvbi1pcy1ub3ctb3Blbi0yMDI2" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a> for more information. Please spread the word about the great things happening at Henderson. We saw increased Kinder enrolment last year and want to keep this going!Hot Lunch Reminder As a reminder, if you haven't yet, be sure to order hot lunch through <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lunchboxorders.net%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cbrennanka%40limestone.on.ca%7C178ff4582eee49c489c408ddfc369837%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638944033663623995%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=GjaiwEJlcTI0r5M9tfGTSOqzH%2BvsRG8nKpB9vcNaaY4%3D&reserved=0" title="https://www.lunchboxorders.net" class="editor-link">https://www.lunchboxorders.net</a>. We are offering subs on Tuesdays and pizza on Thursdays. Money raised from hot lunch goes directly back into our school community to support athletics, learning materials, student initiatives and more. Orders are due Sunday at noon for the following week. Finally, if buses are cancelled because of the weather, hot lunch will be cancelled as well. If you have questions, please email <a href="mailto:jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com</a>School Council  The next School Council meeting is on Wednesday March 25th at 6:30pm. Free childcare will be available. Don’t forget - here’s the School Council email address: <a href="mailto:JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com</a> School Council looks forward to hearing feedback and voices from all Henderson community members. Finally, School Council minutes can be found <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/school-councils" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a>.<img src="/images/067bca33-fd5e-4357-a812-c4a23f0e128f" alt="sfasdas" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Have a great weekend, Hawks!Mme Brennan, Mme Rodé and the JR Henderson Staff<table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 700px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Important Dates: Tuesday March 10th - Last day to purchase popcorn for IST fundraiser Thursday March 12th - Book Character Day Thursday March 12th - Popcorn Fundraiser Day Monday March 16th to Friday March 20th - March Break (school closed)Save the Date: Tuesday April 14th - Kindergarten concert Wednesday April 15th - Grade 1 to 3 Spring concert Thursday April 16th - Grade 4 to 8 Spring concert Thursday April 30th - Board Game Night at Henderson Thursday May 28th - Spring Fling! </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:55 to 9:15 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:15 to 10:55 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:55 to 11:35 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:35 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:15 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:55 to 3:35 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr></tbody></table>

2026-03-06 11:09:29.277 +0000 UTC

Newsletter #24 - 2/27/26

<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">JR Henderson Weekly Update #24 - February 27th, 2026<img src="/images/ad31b7d3-7de5-455c-be1f-b4fe1ceb08c0" alt="Screenshot 2025 09 10 060314" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"></h2>Good afternoon Henderson Families, What a week! While the Wednesday snow day was not planned, we experienced a full week of learning and adventure. From Carnaval to Pink Shirt Day to all of the learning in between, Hawks impressed us and soared high this week. There are lots of updates, photos and stories below. Enjoy!Book Character Day - Thursday March 12th One of our favourite dress-up days of the year is quickly approaching!  On Thursday, March 12th we will hold our annual ‘Dress as Your Favourite Book Character Day’!  Come dressed in a costume inspired by one of your favourite characters from a book. There will be prizes awarded for the most unique, creative and fun costumes.  We can’t wait to see all of the characters in the classrooms and halls on March 12th!<img src="/images/c4c02b8e-d785-44d4-baea-ef01949f28cc" alt="character" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"> Safety at the Crosswalk Our Crossing guard, Sofia, has asked that all crossers ensure they are walking within the crossing lines. Crossing outside of the crosswalk poses a safety risk. 🍿 Second Annual Popcorn Fundraiser for Our Intensive Support Classroom!🍿 We’re excited to kick off our second annual popcorn fundraiser in support of our Intensive Support Classroom. On Thursday March 12th, we will be doing our second annual IST (intensive support room) popcorn fundraiser. Monday raised from this fundraiser will go towards purchasing educational materials for our students with complex learning needs. For just $2.50 per bag, you can enjoy a tasty treat while helping us purchase essential supplies that support communication, sensory needs, hands‑on learning, and meaningful engagement for our students. The item is available for purchase on School Day and the final day to purchase is Tuesday March 10th. Every bag sold directly benefits our classroom and helps create a supportive, enriching environment where every student can thrive. Thank you for helping our efforts truly "pop".<img src="/images/fcd5a830-786a-4e71-ac35-4d4eae758c8c" alt="hhh" width="354" height="354" style="width:354px;height:354px;display:inline-block"> CARNAVAL! Our Carnval agenda was packed with fun, learning and Francais. Students spent the week celebrating French culture and traditions, spending time outdoors and connecting with other classes. We had a full day Thursday of a carousel of outdoor activities, all organized by our 7/8s, including sledding, obstacle courses and a hot chocolate stop. We also had a visit from our favourite snowman - Bonhomme Carnaval. <img src="/images/6eb578d0-7d8c-4b30-9e11-a3729e4fccc6" alt="IMG 4076" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/5ad4f037-3884-4bfc-9d78-2ca9d6d5154f" alt="processed 70058DD9 AF6E 4480 91B5 26FFECED3068" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/05d0f6a2-f8c6-4f5a-8237-5d811b857109" alt="processed 5F5BC37D 5D0D 455D A6A3 7A8358126F9E" width="265" height="353" style="width:265px;height:353px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/51581280-10de-419d-953d-bc3cec8ba1b2" alt="IMG 4078" width="264" height="352" style="width:264px;height:352px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/4ff924e2-4276-4309-be79-ee5db769eb3d" alt="IMG 4029" width="262" height="350" style="width:262px;height:350px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/a850ce95-b60a-4df7-9f77-c1983fb0593e" alt="IMG 4040" width="264" height="352" style="width:264px;height:352px;display:inline-block">Pink Shirt Day On Wednesday, we celebrated kindness by wearing pink shirts, learning about kindness in classes, hearing announcements related to learning, and finally, pledging our commitment through a whole-school mural. <img src="/images/b4a772d7-dc68-4d43-b54b-8a45e6716e81" alt="IMG 4056" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/43bc0c52-2d16-48db-85c1-645b38b44fcc" alt="IMG 4049" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Resources from our SST Team Each month, our amazing SST Team, Ms Caldwell and Ms Adamson, will share resources to support learning at home. We hope you take the time to review these resources and, when possible, engage in the learning at home :)<img src="/images/3707be22-276e-4605-8cca-3ff8988885f7" alt="Designer (2)" width="477" height="716" style="width:477px;height:716px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/8fe7732f-a93e-41e9-945c-472dc6719601" alt="Parent Literacy Activities for Parent Newsletter (1)" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Black History Month Each year, Black History Month honours the experiences, achievements and enduring contributions of Black communities in Canada, while deepening our collective understanding of their history and impact on Canadian society. The theme this year is, “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.” This theme celebrates three decades of Black History Month in Canada and recognizes the enduring legacy of Black Canadians, whose leadership, creativity, innovation and resilience have shaped our past, continue to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.At Henderson, a bulletin board has been created in the Junior Intermediate hallway, featuring prominent black Canadians. Classes have been invited to add to the bulletin board, as a collaborative school-wide effort that features the important learning and work. There will be announcements throughout the month highlighting famous quotes and events by Black Canadians. We also have a second display made by the office in the front hallway. We have already begun to share educational resources that will be featured in classes to spotlight this important event. Lexia Pilot Lexia Reading is a research-based, technology-driven literacy program designed for Pre-K–12 students to develop reading skills through adaptive, personalized learning. It focuses on six areas: phonological awareness, phonics, structural analysis, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Since September, we have been engaging in a Grade 1/2 pilot with Mrs Lloyd's class. We are also delighted to announce that we are engaging in a Grade 3 pilot, starting now, so that every student in Grade 3 at Henderson will be using this fantastic program to close reading gaps (students in French and English classes). We hope to continue to implement this program across different classes. Here are some Hawks in action using Lexia!<img src="/images/504743d5-512a-476b-b79a-a19b55845ff2" alt="IMG 4028" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/72d7c86b-270f-469e-b7f8-b2a02aa89985" alt="IMG 4027" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Southeast Public Health Update A positive relationship with food plays an important role in both mental and physical health, and we encourage you to review the below material. <img src="/images/050af893-d0c2-41b8-8090-626b7bb91d85" alt="2026 02 05 Healthy Relationship with Food Body Newsletter Insert Elementary" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Attendance Reminder As a reminder, attendance is important and is a key indicator of student success. We are always interested in working with families where attendance is low to find creative strategies to overcome barriers. Please reach out if we can support in any way. <img src="/images/0570ce31-415e-41dc-b1bc-1056ec9d3a26" alt="0bcfcbb7 1504 4529 882f 6aac" width="339" height="339" style="width:339px;height:339px;display:inline-block">Kindergarten Registration It's already that time of the year! We are delighted to let families know that our Kindergarten registration process is underway for 2026/2027. See <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/news/kindergarten-registration-is-now-open-2026?hash=jrL25ld3Mva2luZGVyZ2FydGVuLXJlZ2lzdHJhdGlvbi1pcy1ub3ctb3Blbi0yMDI2" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a> for more information. Please spread the word about the great things happening at Henderson. We saw increased Kinder enrolment last year and want to keep this going!<img src="/images/5dc05df3-8c73-4cb3-8071-f18b4c2e4692" alt="original F0246879 96B4 4199 84F1 6685A429215B" width="429" height="544" style="width:429px;height:544px;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/9de3617e-6a4c-4016-8f33-b44d36a6254f" alt="IMG 6586" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/c619fe6a-29de-4f7f-a936-e438b1705a7c" alt="IMG 4060" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><img src="/images/c54e7c55-5743-4908-b30c-df38e53b2ae7" alt="processed EADDBD8B 12C2 4DE4 9470 F9BB00BB9D2E" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">Hot Lunch Reminder As a reminder, if you haven't yet, be sure to order hot lunch through <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lunchboxorders.net%2F&data=05%7C02%7Cbrennanka%40limestone.on.ca%7C178ff4582eee49c489c408ddfc369837%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C638944033663623995%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=GjaiwEJlcTI0r5M9tfGTSOqzH%2BvsRG8nKpB9vcNaaY4%3D&reserved=0" title="https://www.lunchboxorders.net" class="editor-link">https://www.lunchboxorders.net</a>. We are offering subs on Tuesdays and pizza on Thursdays. Money raised from hot lunch goes directly back into our school community to support athletics, learning materials, student initiatives and more. Orders are due Sunday at noon for the following week. Finally, if buses are cancelled because of the weather, hot lunch will be cancelled as well. If you have questions, please email <a href="mailto:jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">jrhschoolcouncil@gmail.com</a>School Council  The next School Council meeting is on Wednesday March 25th at 6:30pm. Free childcare will be available. Don’t forget - here’s the School Council email address: <a href="mailto:JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com" class="editor-link">JRHSchoolCouncil@gmail.com</a> School Council looks forward to hearing feedback and voices from all Henderson community members. Finally, School Council minutes can be found <a href="https://jrhenderson.limestone.on.ca/school-councils" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">here</a>.Have a great weekend, Hawks!Mme Brennan, Mme Rodé and the JR Henderson Staff<table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 700px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Important Dates: Tuesday March 10th - Last day to purchase popcorn for IST fundraiser Thursday March 12th - Book Character Day Thursday March 12th - Popcorn Fundraiser Day Monday March 16th to Friday March 20th - March Break (school closed)Save the Date: Tuesday April 14th - Kindergarten concert Wednesday April 15th - Grade 1 to 3 Spring concert Thursday April 16th - Grade 4 to 8 Spring concert Thursday April 30th - Board Game Night at Henderson </td></tr></tbody></table><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">2025-2026 LDSB School Year Calendar</h2>A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/documents/7291ab76-99b5-43a1-8f2b-edaade7c53e8/2025-04-07-LDSB%20School%20Year%20Calendar-2025-2026.pdf" rel="noreferrer" class="editor-link">PDF version of the 2025-2026 School Year Calendar is available online</a>. <img src="/images/1161a439-a52c-4144-ad44-b2b141f1f967" alt="2025 2026 LDSB School Year Calendar" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block"><h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">School Day Schedule</h2><table class="editor-table"><colgroup><col><col></colgroup><tbody><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Time</th><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(242, 243, 245); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Activity/learning block</th></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">8:55 to 9:15 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Supervision begins on the yard</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">9:15 to 10:55 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">10:55 to 11:35 a.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">11:35 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:15 p.m. to 1:55 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">Recess and nutrition break</td></tr><tr><th class="editor-tableCell editor-tableCellHeader" style="width: 350px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">1:55 to 3:35 p.m.</th><td class="editor-tableCell" style="width: 350px; border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: top;">100-minute learning block</td></tr></tbody></table>

2026-02-27 10:14:20.714 +0000 UTC

Upcoming Events

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Spring Break - No Classes for Students

EQAO Literacy Session for Families: Focus on Writing

Good Friday - No Classes for Students

Easter Monday - No Classes for Students

P.A. Day - No Classes for Students

Spring Break - No Classes for Students

EQAO Literacy Session for Families: Focus on Writing

Good Friday - No Classes for Students

Easter Monday - No Classes for Students

P.A. Day - No Classes for Students

Victoria Day - No Classes for Students

P.A. Day - No Classes for Students

Last Day of School for Students

P.A. Day - No Classes for Students

About Our School

Welcome to James R. Henderson Public School, a dual-track school located in the west end of Kingston. We offer programming in English from Kindergarten to Grade 8 and French Immersion for students in Kindergarten to Grade 6. Our staff believe in the social, emotional, physical and intellectual development of the individual child. We commit ourselves to the celebration of personal and collective excellence in a caring, supportive environment.

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Message from the Director - March 5, 2026

Dear Families,With March now underway, and March Break fast approaching, I would like to share a few updates with families:School Year Calendar is ApprovedThe Ministry of Education has approved Limestone’s recommended 2026-2027 school year calendar. The school year will begin with a P.A. Day on September 1, 2026, with the first day of classes for students on September 2, 2026. A <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/school-year-calendar" class="editor-link">printable version of the calendar is available on Limestone’s website</a>.Budget SurveyTrustees are seeking feedback on the Limestone District School Board budget planning process for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year. Families are encouraged to take a few minutes to provide feedback on areas or priority. The survey is anonymous and can be accessed online at <a href="https://bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey" class="editor-link">bit.ly/2026-2027LDSBBudgetSurvey</a> . The survey closes March 23, 2026.Video: Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO HighlightsAs previously shared, the Ministry of Education released the 2024-2025 Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) results in December, and we are pleased to share that Limestone has achieved its strongest performance in four years, with gains across every testing category.Limestone’s results are consistent with provincial trends in many areas and show meaningful improvement in others, including among specific student groups. In fact, Limestone is performing at or above the provincial average in nearly all measures.These results reflect the collective efforts of Limestone educators, Educational Assistants, program teams, and school leaders—supported by the ongoing commitment of students and families across our district. We are extremely proud of the dedication and hard work that contributed to these achievements.We are pleased to share a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link">video update with families on Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan in Action – EQAO Highlights</a>. This <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1qQcIXSyFU" class="editor-link">short video</a> provides an overview of Limestone’s Student Achievement Plan and how it guides our shared work to support student learning and well-being.Through insights from members of the Limestone Senior Team, families will learn about the key priorities shaping our efforts, the thinking behind our actions, and how collaboration, evidence, and reflection help us improve. The video highlights how data, professional learning, and shared leadership work together to move learning forward, while keeping students, belonging, and continuous growth at the centre. It offers a look at how planning connects to practice as we work together toward positive outcomes for all Limestone students.Revisions to Grades 7, 8, and 10 History CurriculumThe Minister of Education has announced updates to the Grades 7, 8, and 10 History curriculum for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year.With these updates, in Grades 7, 8, and 10, students will learn about significant contributions of Black individuals and communities to Canada’s foundation as a nation, and the obstacles they faced in the pursuit of building an inclusive and prosperous country. The Grade 10 History course will also have new learning on extreme political and social ideologies, the Holocaust and rising antisemitism, and the Holodomor famine in Ukraine.Learn more about the updated curriculum on the <a href="https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/" class="editor-link">Ministry of Education’s Curriculum and Resources website.</a>Become a Homestay and Host an International Student: A Meaningful Experience for You and Your FamilyEach year, LDSB welcomes more than 120 international students into schools across the district from countries around the world, including Brazil, Italy, China, Germany, Japan, Mexico, France, Vietnam, Rwanda, and many others. Hosting an international student is a meaningful way to bring the world into your home while making a positive difference in a young person’s life. Limestone homestay families are carefully matched with students and supported by dedicated Limestone staff throughout the placement, so families are never on their own. Hosting offers opportunities for cultural exchange, the development of lasting relationships, and a monthly stipend to help offset costs. To learn more about how hosting works, the supports in place, and why many local families choose to open their homes, visit <a href="https://internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay" class="editor-link">internationaled.limestone.on.ca/become_a_homestay</a>.Ministry Resources for Reading and MathThere are many resources available to support your student’s learning in math and literacy, offering engaging activities that make learning both fun and effective for students and families. To explore these tools, visit Limestone’s <a href="https://www.limestone.on.ca/tutoring" class="editor-link">Online Learning Resources and Tutoring webpage</a>.Thank you for your continued partnership and support of student learning and well-being across Limestone. We are grateful for the role families play in helping students feel supported, connected, and successful, and we look forward to continuing our work together.Krishna Burra

2026-03-05 21:30:00.475 +0000 UTC

Limestone District School Board Welcomes 2026–2027 Student Trustees

The Limestone District School Board (LDSB) is pleased to announce the appointment of its 2026–2027 Student Trustees, who will be formally welcomed at the April meeting of the Board.Student trustees play an important role in bringing student perspectives to board-level discussions, helping ensure that student voice is reflected in decision-making across the district. For the upcoming term, LDSB looks forward to working with three engaged and passionate student leaders who represent rural, urban, and Indigenous student communities:<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Audrey Bateman – Rural Student Trustee</h2>A message from Student Trustee Bateman: I'm so excited to be your rural student trustee this year. This role is such a great place to create lasting change for the current and future classes. I'm really looking forward to connecting with the trustees and students from across the board to try and make school a more fun, inclusive, and memorable experience where we can.  Everyone's voice matters!<h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Victoria McCourt – Indigenous Student Trustee</h2>A message from Student Trustee McCourt: I applied for the Indigenous student trustee position because I feel that having a voice to represent Indigenous students, their issues and concerns is important. I would like to help celebrate and honour the Indigenous students in the Limestone District School Board. I look forward to helping create more opportunities for Indigenous students and I want our youth to feel proud of who they are and their Indigenous identity. <h2 class="editor-heading-h2" dir="ltr">Mathew Katz – Urban Student Trustee</h2>A message from Student Trustee Katz: I applied to become a student trustee to advocate for issues that both I and students from across LDSB are passionate about. I specifically hope to be able to work on issues related to environmental sustainability and anti-racism. Ultimately, I want to ensure students’ voices are heard and meaningfully represented.The Limestone District School Board congratulates Audrey, Victoria, and Matthew on their appointments and looks forward to welcoming them at the April Board meeting as they begin their term as student trustees for the 2026–2027 school year.<img src="/images/6101cb72-005e-4aad-b211-341230a8738b" alt="2026 2027 Student Trustees" width="100%" height="inherit" style="width:100%;height:inherit;display:inline-block">

2026-03-04 14:48:09.694 +0000 UTC

Limestone DSB Schools to Participate in Kingston Community Climate Action Fund FoodCycler Project

Limestone District School Board schools will participate in this year’s Kingston Community Climate Action Fund (KCCAF) initiative, supported by the City of Kingston and led by Sustainable Kingston. The project aims to turn everyday school lunch waste into meaningful climate action by introducing FoodCyclers in five to seven local elementary schools, with the long-term goal of securing a unit for each elementary school across the City of Kingston. These units will complement existing food-based programming and serve as an additional hands-on learning tool for students.The initiative will help divert organic waste from student snacks and lunches away from landfill. Along with reducing methane emissions, the project will provide real-world learning opportunities by helping students deepen their understanding of sustainability, waste reduction, and the circular economy. <a href="https://can01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cityofkingston.ca%2Fnews%2Fposts%2Fcommunity-donations-sought-to-double-climate-impact-in-local-schools%2F&data=05%7C02%7Ccrothersm%40limestone.on.ca%7C05b07ce6640b41c56fb008de757bf3b3%7Ce1f4165febae4d82a73ca0de593830be%7C0%7C0%7C639077372412072201%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=7QHs6289rcFNO5fKd%2Ft%2Fqgr5HdPeVSzhclv3fn9DQDE%3D&reserved=0" class="editor-link">Learn more about the project and ways to contribute on the City of Kingston website</a>.

2026-03-02 16:34:35.541 +0000 UTC

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 culture and celebrate their commitment to this land.