Dear Parents/Guardians,

Thank you to all the parents and guardians who were able to attend our recent parent-teacher interviews. Your presence and engagement are invaluable. We truly appreciate your commitment to your child's education. The partnership between parents/guardians and teachers is essential for creating a supportive and effective learning environment, and working together as a team ensures the best possible outcomes for our students.

As some of you are aware, I will be going on maternity leave before the end of the school year. My last day at the school will be April 17th. I understand this is sooner than anticipated and that this news may raise questions, and I want to assure you that the school's commitment to your children's education remains unwavering. Currently, I do not have information regarding my replacement, but I will communicate updates to you as soon as they become available.

I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable spring break, filled with rest and rejuvenation to take on the last three months of the school year when we return April 7!

LAST CHANCE! - Alberta Education Assurance Measures Survey

The survey deadline has been extended until March 28! This is the final week to participate in the Alberta Education Assurance Measures Survey for parents of students in grades 4-9. We've only received 14 responses so far, and we need your voice to be heard. The Alberta Education Assurance Measures Survey provides an important opportunity for parents to share feedback on our school’s strengths and areas for growth. Alberta Education Assurance Measures Survey

Report Cards

Report Cards were released online last week. Please ensure that you have viewed your child's progress through the parent portal to stay up to date to on their progress.

• For Grades 7-9: Access your child's grades and comments through the Parent Portal, just as you normally do. Click on the Term 2 percentage grade to see the comments.
• For Kindergarten to Grade 6: Log into the Parent Portal. You'll find a "Report Card" button on the left-hand side.

Please use a web browser to access the Parent Portal, as the mobile app may not display all features correctly. We've included video tutorials to assist you.

GYPSD K-9 Reporting Support (with videos).

Have a wonderful spring break with family and friends,

Bailey Benson

"The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you." ~ B. B. King

March

• Mar. 27 - Spring Break Begins, March 27 - April 6

April

• April 7 - School Resumes
• April 7 - 11 - Education Week
• April 7 - Badminton Practice, 3:30 - 5:00
• April 8 - Handball Practice, 3:30 - 5:00
• April 9 - Badminton Practice, 3:30 - 5:00
• April 9 - Special Person Lunch to Celebrate Education Week
• April 10 - Mini Basketball Practice, 3:30 - 4:30
• April 10 - Hot Lunch: Burgers
• April 11 - Professional Development Day, No School for Students
• April 12 - Mini Basketball Tournament, Grand Trunk
• April 18 - Good Friday, No School

The K/1 class used Code-a-pillars to move their caterpillars. They explored sequences and colors, learning problem-solving and coding through play.

The 4/5 class explored the contrasts between the 1930s and today, focusing on food. They discussed common items, including water pie. To deepen their understanding, students engaged in a hands-on activity, baking and tasting water pie, giving them a direct experience of a historical food item.

The K/1 class explored textures, patterns, and shapes using magnifying glasses. They examined various materials closely, noting details invisible to the naked eye. This hands-on activity allowed them to discover subtle differences and develop their observational skills.

The 2/3 class is diligently working on their writing process, moving from initial drafts to polished final copies. They've invested significant time in building writing stamina, enabling them to sustain longer writing periods and generate richer, more detailed stories. This focus on process and endurance is fostering their growth as young authors.

The 6-9s put their engineering skills to the test with their derby car trials. The hallway became a racetrack as they timed each car's performance. One car blazed through the course, covering the entire length in an impressive 5 seconds, showcasing exceptional speed and design.

Drama rehearsals are in full swing as the cast prepares for their one-act performance. The stage is alive with energy as actors practice their lines, blocking, and character development. On Tuesday, they worked on practicing fight scenes!

Please note that badminton practice for Wednesday, March 26 has been cancelled.