What to Expect on the First Day
We are very excited to welcome our new students. We know that it can be a little confusing for the first few days as you find your way around this big school. Here are a few hints:
1. We'll post a list of everyone's homeroom and locker number outside of the office and in the cafeteria. When you arrive, you can find your name on the list and then go find your classroom and locker.
If you're not sure how to use your lock, this video might be helpful.
2. Your homeroom (first period) teacher will have a paper copy of your timetable for you.
3. At the end of period 1 we'll have our Opening Exercises that will include our daily announcements. Listen closely so that you know what is happening!
4. When the bell rings at 8:10 you'll go to period 1 and classes begin!
5. Lunch begins at 11:00 am and you will find a great selection of nutritious food in our Cafeteria.
6. When the last class ends at 2:30, students find their bus at the east end of the school.
The Indigenous Gathering Space
The Indigenous Gathering Space takes on a unique role, serving as a focal point for fostering cultural awareness, education, and inclusion within the school community. This space plays a crucial role in promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures among students, staff, and the broader school community. The room is thoughtfully designed to reflect Indigenous cultural elements. It features Indigenous artwork, symbols, and décor that represent various Indigenous nations. Our space is welcoming, comfortable, and culturally appropriate.
The Indigenous Gathering Space serves as a place for Indigenous students to connect with one another and find a sense of belonging. It can function as a safe and supportive environment where Indigenous students can share their experiences, culture, and challenges, creating a sense of community within the larger school community. At Eastside, the Indigenous Gathering Space encourages collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students and staff, fostering an inclusive school environment. It's a place where everyone can come together to learn, engage in dialogue, and work towards reconciliation and mutual understanding.
The Indigenous Gathering Space offers daily, weekly, and monthly opportunities. Including healthy breakfast options, traditional lunch dishes found in many Indigenous cultures, quiet comfortable environment for academic work completion, and music, art, and virtual performances based on natural cycles and traditional calendars.
Attention Students: Don't run on empty...fuel your learning with Food For Learning!
The Food For Learning program is available at Eastside Secondary School for all students. We offer a free Breakfast Club during the school day from 7:45 a.m. to 8:10 a.m. in room 186 and free snacks are available in various locations, such as the Learning Commons, Student Services, classrooms and the main office. Food for Learning is also available at the HOPE and SHAPE campuses.
Positive Motivation and Perseverance
Positive motivation and perseverance skills can help students approach challenges in life with an optimistic mindset and remain hopeful even when their circumstances are difficult. Explore and practice strategies that build on students’ strengths. Be careful not to present these skills as the solution to oppression and other systemic issues. Instead, talk about the role of motivation and perseverance in advocacy and collective action to remove barriers within the classroom, school and system.
Click here to find 4 Positive Motivation Strategies
Belleville, ON