​Dear Parents and Students,
 
We have started a new term for grade 8s and 9s and a new semester for grade 10-12 students.  New beginnings are exciting and a chance to improve or continue good study practices.
 
In light of these changes and the start of a new semester, we share this prayer taken in part from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio:
Lord, as we begin the new semester.
Make us ready, attentive and available to hear you.
Thank you for the gift of being able
to rise each day with the assurance that
you walk through it with us.
Thank you for the gifts of creativity and uniqueness,
and the energy to put them to good use.
Amen.
"I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted."
Job 42:2

Week-At-A-Glance
Monday, January 18th
First day of new term/Semester 2

• Senior School - Day 1
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 in LC

Tuesday, January 19th

• Senior School - Day 2
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 in LC
• School Council meeting @ 7:15 on Zoom.  Meeting link can be found at vcss.ca

Wednesday, January 20th

• Senior School - Day 1
• Junior School X block = 1
• Sr. Social Justice Club @ 11:30 in LC
• Alpha @12:15 in room 26

Thursday, January 21st

• Senior School - Day 2
• Board Games Club @12:15 in LC

Friday, January 22nd

• Senior School - Day 1
• All schedule changes for grades 10-12 should be finalized

 
Next Week
Monday Jan 25th-Jan 29th
Literacy 10 and Numeracy 10 exams to take place for many, (but not all), students in grade 10 and some students in grade 11 who missed exams due to school closures last year.  Students will be given a specific time and date for their exams. These exams are part of the graduation requirements for BC and Yukon grads of 2022 and beyond.  At this time the scores are not used as part of a student’s grade average or evaluation for post-secondary admissions.  They are not like provincial exams in the past where results were averaged in with school marks.  Currently the exams are used for data collection and analysis only.
Parents and students are encouraged to look at materials and practice exams.  
For the Numeracy exam:  https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/provincial/grade-10-numeracy-assessment and for the Literacy exam:  https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/provincial/grade-10-literacy-assessment
Students will be scheduled to take these exams in their "off shift" time so that they do not miss valuable class instruction time. 
 
Schedule Changes
Because of the compressed time senior students have in classes, we want all class changes to be completed by the end of this week.
If students need a schedule changed, please see Ms. Campbell or Ms. Segriff or Ms. Brogdon this week. There is a list at the office for students who need schedule changes.  If it is a simple change, please message one of the above listed staff on Teams.  That is the quickest way for students to communicate with teachers or administrators.
 
Credit Recovery for Senior Students
We have hired 2 student support teachers for our senior students.  These teachers are both experienced teachers who have taught at Vanier. Mr. Serge Comeau and Mr. Steven Biss will be providing support in specific subject areas for credit recovery and for additional organizational, attendance and academic support. 
How Credit Recovery Works
Senior students who completed courses in the first term and were close but did not pass the course will have an opportunity to work with the support teachers in order to pass their graduation requirement courses.  Students must have reached at least a 40% in their course and must have completed the course. (i.e. if you dropped the course, you are not eligible for credit recovery). Students who have below 40% and need the course to graduate must take the course again.  If a student meets the criteria for credit recovery, the student will be sent a letter with their report cards outlining the requirements of the credit recovery program.  Students will be expected to work on credit recovery in their “off-shift” time and will have attendance and participation expectations.
 
Shift Switches for Senior Students
We had many requests from Senior students and their parents for switching shifts in order to stay a morning student. We have tried to accommodate when possible.  We are experiencing some overcrowding in some of our morning classes. We are asking students in the overcrowded classes to consider switching to the afternoon shift group if possible.  For some students, the afternoon actually works better.  Attendance is critical for success more than ever and if consistent attendance in the mornings is not realistic, consider the afternoon shift.
 
Booster Cards
Students are reminded to please return either your money for the booster cards you have sold, or please return the extra booster cards you have.  We have people who want to buy them!
 
Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Have a great week!
 
Katrina Brogdon, Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal

​Dear Parents and Students,
 
We are at the end of the first semester for senior students and the end of the first half of the school year for junior students.  How time flies! This has been a year like no other, and before we know it, spring will be here. 
Even though everyone handles change in different ways, it is comforting to know that some things are stable, solid and always there for you.  The Bible reminds us that no matter what changes happen, no matter what is happening, God is always here for us.  
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
Past, present and future, His faithfulness remains. The character, presence and grace of Christ will never change, even if everything around us does.
 
This Week at Vanier
January 11-13 - Exams
January 14 - Exam make up day
Exam schedule is in effect.  Please see the schedule below.
January 15 - Professional Development day- no school for students
 
Next Week
Monday, January 18th
First day of new term/Semester 2
Students may pick up a copy of their semester 2 timetables if they do not have one.
 
Exams
Exam week is underway and based on today’s sense of calmness in the school, it looks like the week is off to a good start.  We understand that preparing and taking exams creates a lot of stress and anxiety for some students.  Here are a few things that will help to create a smoother exam taking experience: 

• Arrive early to your exam time if at all possible
• Make sure you have a water bottle with you and enough pens, pencils, paper and calculator if needed.
• Take a quick look over your notes if needed, but don’t try to cram everything in the night before. 
• Remember-this is one day in many.  One result on a test is never the entire picture of your class performance.  Your teachers always want you to succeed, so try your best, answer every question, and take your time.

The most important thing of all:  Get a good night’s sleep! Being tired has a big impact on your brain’s function, especially higher-level thinking and memory recall.
 
Schedule Changes
If students need a schedule changed, please see Ms. Campbell or Ms. Segriff this week.
 
Shift Switches for Senior Students
We have many requests from Senior students and their parents for switching shifts in order to stay a morning student.  While we appreciate the intent behind the switch requests, please understand that we will not be able to accommodate most of the requests.  There are many factors we must consider, and while there will be a few students who are able to stay as morning students, not everyone who has requested a morning shift will be able to get one. 
 
Also, we will not allow students to be in “both shifts” to accommodate their scheduling requests.  We understand that the shift system is not ideal for many students. However, we must keep this system at this time. Let’s all take a moment to remember that we are still in school, able to attend every day.
 
Booster Cards
Students are reminded to please return either your money for the booster cards you have sold, or please return the extra booster cards you have.  We have people who want to buy them!
 
Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns.
Have a great week!
 
Katrina Brogdon, Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal

 Online tool to participate in the review of inclusive and special education

This is a reminder that the online tool to participate in the review of inclusive and special education remains available for you to fill out until January 24, 2021. 

• Share your experience through the online tool at: https://app.spryng.io/goto/6DhtiyieGZSruKpi2Mypyb

• If using a phone or tablet: select ‘browser’ in the pop-up to continue to the online tool. The app is not being used for this engagement.

 
Open to all families:
All parents and students are encouraged to fill out the online tool, not just those who use additional supports. Part of this review is learning about how all students have their individual learning needs met at school.

Filling it out with your child:
We also encourage you to have your child fill it out if they are 13 or older.  It is important to hear the voices of students as part of this review.

Using the online tool:
The online tool takes 10-15 minutes to fill out. It is not like a typical survey. You can fill it out as many times as you would like with as many experiences as you want to share. Watch this video about filling out the online tool (English only).
For families who may not have a computer at home, we encourage you to contact the school, to fill out the tool on a computer at the school.

A note about privacy:  You should not share any personal information that could identify you or others. Instead, you can make general references, such as, “at school”, or “my teacher”, or “in my community,”. Any information that could identify you or others will be removed so that all responses are anonymous.
​
For more information about the review:

• Watch this video from Dr. Yee about the review: https://youtu.be/krwubfADtEk
• Visit: engageyukon.ca/en/2020/review-inclusive-and-special-education-yukon

​

​Dear Students and Parents, 

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a restful and joy filled holiday break.  
As we look back on 2020, we see that it was an eventful, and for most of us, difficult year. It was a year that changed and challenged many aspects of our lives. We know change is often difficult, but hopefully we have learned and gained strength from these changes. One thing I have noticed in our Vanier community is the greater sense of care and concern that staff and students show for each other. Compassion for others usually grows through difficult experiences, and no one escapes difficult experiences in life. Let us always be mindful of the compassion needed with each other as we continue to make our way through a most unusual school year.  
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Week-at-a-Glance
Monday January 4th 

• Senior School Day 1 
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in LC 

Tuesday January 5th 

• Senior School Day 2 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

Wednesday January 6th 

• Senior School Day 1 
• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC 
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26 
• PLC @ 2:15 pm: Early Dismissal for Junior School students who are caught up on all work 

Thursday January 7th 

• Senior School Day 2 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

Friday January 8th 

• Senior School Day 1 

Monday January 11-Thursday January 14 

• Exams for Junior and Senior School

 
We are back in full swing at school. This week is review week and next week is exam week from Monday Jan 11-14. January 15 is a professional development day and Monday January 18 starts the new term for all students. 

Junior School News  
Next week is exam week. Students in grades 8 and 9 will have exams in the mornings and are asked to go home at mid-day if possible. We have checked with the transportation coordinator and we were told that grade 8 and 9 students can take the school bus home after their exams if they are already registered for that bus. There will still be distancing requirements, so it is a first come, first served situation for school busses. Of course, any student who has a city bus pass may use the city bus that day to leave after their exams.  

Senior School News 
Regarding our schedule for the new semester: as you may know, the decision to stay on the morning/afternoon shift for Semester 2 was made quite some time ago. This decision was not made at an individual school level. I have heard from a few parents who are frustrated with the shift system and would love to see their children be able to be in instructional classes all day. Currently, there is no option for full day classes at any of the Whitehorse high schools. We understand your concerns. We will continue to support students in the best way possible. Thank you for your continuing patience.    

Several students have asked about their timetable for next semester. For courses changes senior students can talk to Ms. Segriff, Ms. Campbell, or Ms. Brogdon. A waitlist has been created for students requesting a change for their scheduled shift time. This is not a simple request as we have many factors to consider. We should be able to let students know about shift change requests at the end of exam week.  

Help in the Senior skills room is available every day for students in grades 10-12. There will be an additional math/science specialist in the Senior Skills room on Tuesday and Wednesday this week for students who may need last minute help in these areas.  

The exam schedule for grades 10-12 is in the final stages of revision. We heard from several students about conflicts in their exam times and are working hard to revise the schedule so that there are fewer conflicts. The final schedule should be complete by tomorrow afternoon.  

Regarding the new semester and the Covid-19 vaccine: we will not be changing any operations of the school based on the vaccine. As mentioned above, senior students will still be in morning or afternoon shifts.  
​
As always, please contact us with any questions or concerns. Have a wonderful week!  
Katrina Brogdon, Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal 

SACRED HEART CATHEDRAL
406 Steele Street, Whitehorse (YT), Y1A 2C8
Phone: (867) 667-2437 Fax: (867)667-7529
​
Email:  sacredheart@klondiker.com  Web: www.sacredheartcathedral.ca

​
 
CHRISTMAS MASSES
 
Due to attendance being limited, you must sign up for Christmas Eve Mass and Christmas Day Mass.  Please register on our website for the time you wish to attend if you are confident you will attend. There are several mass times available.  If you would rather sign up over phone or email the parish office, please do so.
Only those parishioners that have registered will be allowed to attend the mass.
Christmas Eve will have 10 masses and Christmas Day will have 6 masses.
 
•        CHRISTMAS EVE - Thursday, December 24th, 2020
                                               Cathedral 4:00 Full, 5:30 Full, 7:00, 8:30 & 10:00 pm
                                               CYO Hall ( Separate Priest) 4:00, 5:30, 7:00 (French),
                                                             8:30 & 10:00 pm
•        CHRISTMAS DAY - Friday, December 25th, 2020
                                                Cathedral  9:00, 10:30 am, 12:00 pm (French)
                                                CYO Hall (Separate Priest) 9:00, 10:30 am, 12:00 pm
 
NOVENA IN HONOR OF THE INFANT JESUS: We will pray the Novena every evening, from December 15th to December 23rd at 9 pm at Sacred Heart Cathedral. On December 20th, the Novena will be prayed at the 7pm mass.
**CONFESSION SCHEDULE**

·       December 19, 2020             10:00 AM TO 12:00 PM
                                                  3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
                                                  6:00 PM TO 7:00 PM
·       December 23, 2020             10:00 AM TO 12:00 PM
                                                  3:00 PM TO 5:00 PM
                                                  5:00 PM TO 7:00 PM
                                                           7:00 PM TO 9:00 PM
 
Merry Christmas from Fr. Szwagrzyk and the staff at Sacred Heart Cathedral

​

Dear Parents and Students, 

This is the third week of four weeks which make up the season of Advent.  This week we reflect on the theme of Joy. In lighting the Advent candles, this is the week the pink candle is lit.  This symbolizes a rejoicing or joy that Christ is almost here.  In some traditions the third Sunday of Advent is also called Gaudete Sunday.  Gaudete is a Latin word meaning “rejoice”. In his 2014 Gaudete Sunday homily, Pope Francis said that Gaudete Sunday is known as the "Sunday of joy", and that instead of fretting about "all they still haven't" done to prepare for Christmas, people should "think of all the good things life has given you”. Important reflections for all of us.   

​From all of us to all of you, we hope that you have a peaceful and blessed holiday. 
We look forward to seeing students back at school on Monday, January 4th, 2021! 

Week-at-a-Glance:  
Monday Dec 14th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Christmas Sweater Day 
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in LC 

Tuesday December 15th 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Twin Tuesday and Christmas Hat Day 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 
• School Council Meeting 7:15 pm on Zoom. Find the link to the zoom meeting here: school website 

Wednesday December 16th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Pajama Day 
• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC 
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26 
• Jr teachers PLC- early dismissal for grade 8 and 9 students who are caught up on all assignments 

Thursday December 17th 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Hawaiian Christmas Day- wear beach themed clothes (no swimsuits of course!) 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC  

Friday December 18th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Christmas Spirit Day 
• Door Decorating Contest Judging  

Saturday December 19th- Sunday January 4th, 2021 
Enjoy your holiday break!   

2021 
Monday, January 4th - First Day Back at School!  
Review week for exams begins 

Exam Schedule 
Please see the exam schedules above.  If you have questions or concerns, please let us know as soon as possible. Exam week is January 11-14, 2021.  Friday, January 15th, is a professional development day. Semester 2 begins January 18th. 

School Council Meeting To Discuss Vanier Name Change Process
You should have received an email last week inviting members of the Vanier community to attend tomorrow night's school council meeting.  The invitation link is on the vcss.ca website and also listed above under Tuesday, Dec 15th.  A name will not be decided on Tuesday, but the process that will go forward could be of interest to you.  

Aurora Virtual School for students unable to attend classes at Vanier 
If your child is unable to attend school next semester, please register with Aurora Virtual School as soon as possible.  Aurora’s website is http://www.auroravirtualschool.ca/ 

As always, please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.  
In Peace,  
Katrina Brogdon, Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal ​

12/7/2020

​Dear Parents and Students, 

This is the second week of four weeks which make up the season of Advent.  This week we reflect on the theme of Peace.  There are so many interpretations of what peace means: peace in ourselves, within our families and communities and across the nations of the world.  Living in this tumultuous time can certainly disrupt our peace and cause anxiety.  The Bible has something to say to us in this age of anxiety, and it is comforting to read these words: 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.    Philippians 4:6-7 

Week at a Glance:  
Monday December 7th 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Jr. Social Justice Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 
• Liturgies in classrooms: December 6th Memorial 
• Door decorating begins for classes 

Tuesday December 8th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

Wednesday December 9th 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Jr. School - X block = 8

• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC 
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26 

Thursday December 10th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

• Paper Recycling pick up @ 1:00 pm (place container in hallway) 
• Write for Rights Amnesty International Day - Learning Commons and in classrooms 

Friday December 11th 

• Senior School - Day 1 

Potential Failure Reports 
Teachers of students in grades 10-12 will be sending out emails to parents this week if a student is in danger of failing a course.  If you do receive an email regarding your child’s potential failure in a course, please respond to the teacher if you have any questions.  

​An Important Reminder: Students Who Need Home Schooling On a Long-Term Basis
We have heard from a few parents that they will be keeping their child at home due to COVID-19 risks.  Every family is different and only you know the best way to deal with our current situation.  A reminder: We will not be able to accommodate students who will be gone for long stretches of time.  If there is a reason your child cannot attend school on a long-term basis, please let us know and we will help you with the process of applying for Aurora Virtual School.  Vanier students can attend Aurora Virtual School as a “cross-enrolled” student and still have Vanier as their home school.  

Exam Schedule 
We will send an exam schedule out before the end of the week.  Exam week is January 11-14, 2021.  January 15 is a professional development day. The new semester begins January 18th. 

Masks 
Thank you to all students and parents who have been so supportive with this new rule. If there are issues with individual students regarding mask use, the parents will be contacted.   

Lockers 
Grade 8 and 9 students still have the opportunity to sign up for lockers.  Registration forms must be signed by parents and returned as soon as possible.  

Phones 
Grade 8 and 9 students should not have their phones out during class time.  We will continue to enforce this rule. Thank you to parents for your support of this.  

Keeping Your Children Home On a Temporary Basis 
Several parents have contacted the school indicating that they are keeping their children home for health reasons.  We support this decision.  You are the expert on your children and on your situation.  If you know your child will be out for several days, please do the following:  

• Let the office know by phone or email of the absence and the anticipated number of days.  That way we can mark your child “absent-excused” and you will not get attendance phone calls.  
• If your child is well enough, have them contact their teachers through rapid identity to let their teachers know.  Your child should be able to get the assignments and work they need.  If not, please contact your child’s teacher through email or phone the school.   

As always, please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.  

In Peace,  
Katrina Brogdon, Acting Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal 

11/30/2020

​Dear Parents and Students, 

Yesterday was the first day of Advent.  The theme for the first week of Advent is Hope.  We all need the gift of hope in our lives. Of all the hopes we have for ourselves and our world, we especially have hope for our youth.  We recognize that our young people have suffered a lot through the past year, but I believe they can keep their hope of a bright future with the support of the adults around them.  
These words from Pope Francis inspire us: “Advent is an incessant call to hope; it reminds us that God is present in history to lead it to its ultimate end, to lead it to its fullness, which is the Lord, the Lord Jesus Christ.” 
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12 

Special Announcement from Ryan Sikkes 
Dear Vanier staff, students, and families: 
I wish you all blessings as we enter this Advent season and, together, eagerly await the birth of Jesus Christ. 
This is a difficult message to write as it concerns one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make. 
After much deliberation and prayer, I have accepted the position of Assistant Deputy Minister, Schools and Student Services at the Department of Education, effective December 17.  Until that time, I will remain in my temporary assignment of A/Superintendent, Area 2 and so will not be returning to Vanier. 
I have spent 16 wonderful years at Vanier Catholic Secondary and consider those whom I have had to privilege to work with as more than just colleagues – they have become more like family.  Similarly, the students who have come and gone over the years have given me so much in affirming my vocation as an educator.  In my new role, I hope to support all those involved with the public schools in Yukon to give their very best in educating our children. 
I have an enormous amount to learn as I move into this new role and I will confess more than a little anxiety heading into it.  As my responsibilities increase from overseeing 421 students and 57 staff in 1 school to more than 5700 students and over 1000 staff in 30 schools, I will very much need your prayers.  The constant support of the Vanier community has been a major source of personal and professional inspiration and I fervently hope I may continue to count on it. 
I depart Vanier confident that our students are in good hands.  I know our students have committed and enthusiastic educators working hard to support them.  This goes beyond teachers, and extents to all our educational assistants, office staff, custodial staff, and all the other people who work “behind the scenes” in the service of our kids, including my own.  Thank you for all you have given to the Vanier Catholic Secondary school community - it has been an honour and privilege to work alongside and support you as best I could. 
I continue to be grateful to Ms. Brogdon and Ms. Wallace for their leadership in my absence.  I trust that Vanier’s superintendent, Paul McFadyen, the school council, and the Roman Catholic Episcopal Corporation will continue to work effectively together to ensure effective leadership continues during the coming days, months, and years. 
Sincerely yours, 
Ryan Sikkes 

Thank you for your many years of service Mr. Sikkes.  You will be very missed here.  Your legacy of strong and compassionate leadership will have a lasting impact on Vanier and we wish you all the best.
Sincerely, Ms. Brogdon and Ms. Wallace and all the Vanier family

​Week at a Glance  
Monday November 30th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in LC 

Tuesday December 1st 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• *All Staff and Students Will Wear Masks in All Common Spaces in School* 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

Wednesday December 2nd 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC 
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26 
• Junior School – PLC (Early Dismissal) @ 2:15 pm

Thursday December 3rd 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 
• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm 

Friday December 4th 

• Senior School - Day 2 

Masks - I Protect You, You Protect Me 
Starting December 1st, Vanier and many other schools in Yukon will implement mandatory mask rules. As lucky as we are to live in Yukon, we are not protected from Covid-19 by simply living here.  We know that masks are not the only measure, but they are a measure we can control and a proven aid in the prevention of Covid-19 spread. The research is clear: individuals with Covid-19 can be symptom free for days, not realizing they are carrying the virus and possibly spreading it to others more at risk than themselves. 
At Vanier we believe in taking an educational approach in helping youth develop responsibility for self and others.  We will continue to take this approach with the mask rules. Simple reminders will be all that is needed for most students.  For students who refuse or find it too difficult to be compliant and wear a mask when required, there will be a progression of disciplinary actions.  Parents will be contacted and consulted with if there is a problem.  I am confident our students will respect this rule.  If the past few weeks have been an indication, we have already had great cooperation from students. 

Lockers 
Grade 8 and 9 students still have the opportunity to sign up for lockers.  Registration forms must be signed by parents and returned as soon as possible.  

Phones 
Grade 8 and 9 students should not have their phones out during class time.  We will continue to enforce this rule. Thank you to parents for your support of this.  

Keeping Your Children Home on a Temporary Basis 
Several parents have contacted the school indicating that they are keeping their children home for health reasons.  We support this decision.  You are the expert on your children and on your situation.  If you know your child will be out for several days, please do the following:  
Let the office know by phone or email of the absence and the anticipated number of days.  That way we can mark your child “absent-excused” and you will not get attendance phone calls.  
If your child is well enough, have them contact their teachers through rapid identity to let their teachers know.  Your child should be able to get the assignments and work they need.  If not, please contact your child’s teacher through email or phone the school.   

Students Who Need Home Schooling on a Long-Term Basis 
At Vanier we are operating under a blended learning model.  In that model we will not be able to accommodate students for long term continuous absences.  If there is a reason your child cannot attend school on a long-term basis, please let us know and we will help you with the process of applying for Aurora Virtual School.  Vanier students can attend Aurora Virtual School as a “cross-enrolled” student and still have Vanier as their home school

As always, please contact us by email or phone if you have any concerns or questions.  Have a great week!
Katrina Brogdon, Acting Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal

11/23/2020

Dear Parents and Students,
 
"May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you."
Psalm 33:22
 
Sunday, November 29 is the start of Advent. In anticipation of this season, we will have our annual Advent Liturgy this Wednesday.  The word advent comes from the Latin word adventus, which is translated as “to come to” or “to arrive”.  In ancient Rome however, the word adventus was used to describe a “glorious arrival” of an emperor home from a successful battle, or a hero arriving to save a city.
Advent is not simply an arrival, it is a glorious arrival, and so we celebrate the season as such.  I have included a "good deeds and intentions" advent calendar for you to use with your family at home if you wish.  There are many great ideas for gifts and connections that are not things, but actions of the heart and spirit. 
 
Have a blessed week and as always, please contact us with any questions or concerns you might have. 
 
Katrina Brogdon, Acting Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal
 
Week at a Glance
Monday November 23rd 

• Senior School - ​Day 1   
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in LC 

Tuesday November 24th 

• Senior School - Day 2  
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

Wednesday November 25th 

• Senior School - Day 1 
• X=1 
• Advent Celebration 
  • 8:50  
  • 11:15 
  • 11:45 
  • 12:40 

• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC 
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26 

Thursday November 26th 

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Joint Health and Safety Committee Meeting @ 12:15pm in Room 9 
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC 

• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm 

Friday November 27th 

• Senior School - Day 1   

​End of Term Exams and Mid-term Assessments
By the end of next week we will have a draft of the exam schedule ready to send out.  For grade 8s and 9s the word "Exam" can sound pretty scary.  For these students, the exams will be a mid-term assessment, and different teachers assess in different ways.  Not all teachers have traditional paper and pen tests, but may have assessments that are more project, hands-on or skill based, depending on the subject and judgement by the teacher.  The same can be said for the senior school teachers.  The exams that senior students will take might be in the form of a final project, or a more traditional exam.  These will take place in January. 

Parent and Student surveys
The Department of Education is asking all parents and students to fill out a follow up survey on the effects of COVID-19 on learning.  Please follow the provided links to fill out the surveys. This information is very valuable to all members of the education community. 
Parents:
The Learning during COVID-19 survey is now available for you to fill out. The survey for parents and students has been sent directly to all families by e-mail. I wanted to follow-up with our school community to make sure that you received the survey.
The survey will take about 10-15 minutes. You can fill it out at: https://survey.gov.yk.ca/SchoolFamilySurvey.aspx
For those who may not be able to complete the survey online, they can participate by phone (in English) by calling the Department of Education at 867-667-8238 during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays during the survey period.
It will be available from November 23-30, 2020. For more information on the Learning during COVID-19 surveys across this school year, please visit: engageyukon.ca/en/2020/student-learning-during-pandemic.
Students:
The Learning during COVID-19 survey is now available for you to fill out. The survey will take about 10-15 minutes.
You can fill it out at: https://survey.gov.yk.ca/SchoolStudentSurvey.asp
Filling out the survey will help us support you this school year and make sure we are doing a good job of protecting your health and safety.
Your teachers will also be checking in with you to make sure you have time to fill out the survey during school hours.
The survey is open until the end of day Monday, November 30.

11/16/2020

Dear Vanier parents and students,

God is our refuge and our strength. An ever-present help in times of trouble.
Psalm 46:1

​This weekend we saw terrifying images and heard heart-breaking news about typhoon Vamco which poured torrential rains and caused massive flooding in the Philippines over the weekend. We are praying for our students and all their friends and families who are affected by this natural disaster. Our “wear a hat, have a heart” fundraiser on Thursday is earmarked for relief organizations working in the Philippines.

Principal’s message

Attendance, Uncertainty, and Mental Health
There is a direct connection between attendance and school success. Some students are struggling right now with their attendance, for a variety of reasons. In reviewing the report cards, I noticed several of our senior students are struggling with their academics and their attendance. We want to work closely with parents to help students attend and succeed. We know it is difficult for students right now. We know that missing classes often leads to more missed classes because it becomes overwhelming to try to catch up. We want our students to be here. Any encouragement you can provide is helpful.

Teachers and students are navigating through murky waters this year. No teacher at Vanier was trained to teach during a global pandemic, and students are trying their best to learn under conditions that none of them have any experience in. We are all feeling the pain of separation from family and friends, acclimating to half-day school days, and coping with abbreviated sports seasons. I miss the days of seeing grade 12s hanging around their lockers and reminding them to go to class! I think we are all grieving for the good old days of 2019, and grief takes time to process. The mental health of teens and adults is suffering all over the world, and we are certainly seeing this in our school family. To this end, we have applied for additional supports to help students cope with the complex tasks of juggling a blended learning school year. I am hopefully optimistic about this.

As most of you know, we will be staying with the half day model for the remainder of this school year. I have received heartbreaking phone calls and emails from parents about this. You are very worried about your children, and so are we. There is no magic solution I can offer. I have no say or influence over what has been decided regarding the scheduling for the rest of the year. I can pass on your concerns; I can listen, and try my best to help parents, students and staff come up with solutions that will work best for your child.

Regarding mental health, there is no doubt that anxiety and depression are affecting many adolescents right now. As a parent of two daughters doing post-secondary programs from the isolation of the kitchen table or their bedroom, I see how frustrating and difficult it is to stay motivated and work on courses for a very unpredictable future. Anxiety is very real for this generation of teens. Between social media pressures, uncertain futures and the isolation of living through a global pandemic, life is anxiety inducing right now. Acknowledging that their anxiety is real is an important support you can provide your child. Encouragement and hopefulness are good medicine at any time. Here is a great Canadian resource on mental health for you. Here to Help is a collaborative website supported by several B.C. and other Canadian mental health organizations. The website is easy to navigate and has resources for children, teens, adults and parents. As always, please reach out to us if you have concerns.

Have a safe and happy week. As always, feel free to contact us by phone or email.

Sincerely,
Katrina Brogdon, Acting Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal

Week at a Glance
Monday November 16th

• Senior School - ​Day 1
• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in LC

Tuesday November 17th

• Senior School - Day 2
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC
• Sr. PLC + Collab. @ 3:30 pm in LC
• School Council Meeting @ 7:15 pm on Zoom

Wednesday November 18th

• Senior School - Day 1
• Rock Your Mocs Day!!
• Sr. Social Justice Club @11:30 am in LC
• Alpha @ 12:15 pm in Room 26
• Junior School - PLC (Early Dismissal) @ 2:15 pm 

Thursday November 19th

• Senior School - Day 2
• Hat Day!!
• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC
• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm

Friday November 20th

• PD Day 

Week of November 23-27  Wednesday Nov. 25th Advent Liturgy

Student Led Conferences
Thank you to all the parents who were able to come to our student led conferences last week. We realize that it is sometimes difficult to attend events such as these and appreciate those who were able to. For those who were not able to attend in person, please contact your child’s teachers if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s progress.

Report Cards
A few parents have contacted the school with concerns about report cards which have not yet arrived. The mail seems to be slow right now, and if you have not received your child’s report card in the mail, we can send a pdf via email to you for any student in grade 10-12. Students in grade 8 and 9 did not receive report cards, but rather self-assessment and informal progress reports from teachers. If you did not receive these reports for your grade 8 or 9 child, feel free to contact their teachers. Emailing teachers is always the easiest way.

​New Safety protocols from Chief Medical Officer of Health’s office
Last week I sent a letter to the entire school community regarding upcoming changes to school operations for Covid-19 safety protocols. As mentioned in the letter, the requirement to wear masks in the school in common areas will be implemented. There is some confusion regarding when these new protocols must be in place. This matter will be discussed at tomorrow’s school council meeting and I will send an update then. Currently, our plan is to implement these protocols starting on Wednesday, November 18, 2020. We remain open to being flexible on this deadline as we wait for further instructions. 

11/9/2020

​Dear Vanier Students and Families, 
 
This week is another busy one at Vanier.  We are looking forward to seeing you during Student Led Conferences, and hope that you have a relaxing and reflective day on Wednesday for the observance of Remembrance Day.  
 
Thoughts on Peace: 
As we go out into the world, let us remember Jesus’ words “peace be with you” and carry them in our hearts. We ask the Holy Spirit for the courage to share Jesus’ gift of peace through acts of kindness, as a sign of his kingdom’s everlasting peace, where the Father has prepared a place for each of us, beloved sons and daughters of God. 
Tony Cosentino, Catholic Educator 
 
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email, email vcss@gov.yk.ca, or call the school at 667-5901. 
 
Sincerely, 
Katrina Brogdon, Acting Principal and Alethea Wallace, Vice-Principal 
 
Week at a Glance 
Monday November 9th 
·         Senior School - Day 1    
·         Fire Drill @ 11:20 am  
·         JR Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in Learning Commons  
 Tuesday November 10th 
·         Senior School - Day 2  
·         Remembrance Day Liturgy  

• ·         8:45  
• ·         11:15  
• ·         11:45  
• ·         12:40  

·         Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC  
·         Junior Student Led Conference  

• ·         3:30 - 5:00 A-L  
• ·         5:30 - 7:00 M-Z  

 Wednesday November 11th 
·         Remembrance Day – No School  
 Thursday November 12th  
·         Senior School - Day 1  
·         Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC  
·         Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm  
·         Senior Student Led Conference  

• ·         3:30 - 5:00 M-Z  
• ·         5:30 - 7:00 A-L  

 Friday November 13th 
·         Senior School - Day 2   
 
Remembrance Day  
Remembrance day is on Wednesday, November 11th.  We are honoring Remembrance day on Tuesday, however our traditional ceremony will be different this year due to Covid-19 restrictions.  Here is information about the Whitehorse ceremony and for a nice discussion around the dinner table, here is a link to the Veteran Affairs Canada “10 Quick Facts on the Poppy” webpage.  
 
Royal Canadian Legion WHITEHORSE 
The annual ceremony held at the Whitehorse Cenotaph near city hall will be carried live on the Royal Canadian Whitehorse Legion Facebook page.  Veteran Affairs Canada 
 
Report cards mailed last week 
The office has processed and mailed out all report cards and interim reports.  If you haven’t received yours by the end of the week please contact us. 
 
Student Led Conferences this week   
Student Led Conferences will occur this week on Tuesday (Junior school) and Thursday (Senior school).  Please see the above schedules.  
After much thought and consideration, we have decided to keep a similar format as in years past – classrooms will be open for drop-in conferences during specific windows of time to limit the total number of students/families in the school.  Each teacher will be assigned to a specific room which will, in most cases, allow for 3 conferences to occur simultaneously.  There will be waiting rooms assigned to each teacher if their classrooms are full. 
We ask that all students and parents/guardians wear masks, especially when waiting or transiting between classrooms in hallways. 
 
Cell phones 
As we noted in previous Monday emails, we are extremely concerned at the cell phone use in the grade 8 and 9 classrooms during learning time.  Grade 8 and 9 students should not have their phone out at any time during class time.  Parents, we need your help on this.  Please talk to your child about their cell phones and the importance of putting them out of hand and out of sight during class time.  Each grade 8 and 9 teacher will be asking students to place their phone in a class “phone box” at the beginning of class time.  The phones are distracting to your child and others and are taking away from important learning time.  
 
Grade 8 & 9 lockers assignments are coming!  
Due to the colder weather and the need to store coats and boots, we are planning to assign lockers throughout the school to Grade 8 and 9 students.  Lockers will be spaced out with 2 lockers between each locker being used.  This will mean that lockers may be some distance away from the student’s homeroom classroom. 
These lockers are only meant to store outerwear and boots, may only be accessed at the start and end of the day along with the start and end of lunch.  All class materials will remain being stored in classroom bins.  Lockers have always served as a gathering spot for students and this is precisely what we don’t want to have happen. 
New locker use agreements with Covid-19 rules and processes will be distributed and will be required to be signed prior to the issuance of a locker and lock combination (the school will supply locks – there is no need for students or families to purchase or supply one). 
 
Service Learning opportunities  
We are continuing with our service learning requirements as part of our Religion 8 through 11 requirements (which also help us meet the 30 hours requirement for graduation).  
We understand that it is more difficult, due to COVID-19, to engage in many of the service learning opportunities that students have engaged in previously.  Here are some opportunities that can be done independently and logged/acknowledged by parents:  
·                     Babysit or pet-sit  
·                     Tutor siblings or sign up for our tutoring program  
·                     Do errands, cook for, or otherwise help someone out  
·                     Shovel snow  
·                     Do something helpful for extended family or your “double bubble” family  
·                     Shovel snow at school 

11/2/2020

• Dear Vanier Students and Families, 

 
Today is All Souls' Day 
All Souls' Day is marked on 2nd November directly following All Saints' Day and is an opportunity for us to commemorate those who have departed. 
Today’s prayer: 
God of Comfort, 
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, 
And let perpetual light shine upon them. 
May the souls of the faith departed, 
Through the mercy of God, 
Rest in peace, Amen 
 
Today was a challenging day for travel in and around Whitehorse.  We always urge families to stay on the safe side of things and make your best judgements for safe travelling.  As a reminder, once students are safely at school on bad weather days, they should stay here at school.  It is much safer for them to stay put and wait until the roads are cleared than to try to go home in unsafe conditions.   
 
As mentioned last week, our COVID-19 plan has been updated to reflect our expectation that students are wearing masks in common areas like hallways, bathrooms, etc. Many students are still not following the guidelines in the hallways and while we are reminding them and handing out many non-reusable masks, we ask that parents support this expectation and send your child with a reusable mask or have them pick up another reusable mask at the office.  Our COVID-19 plan and related documentation can be found here: https://www.vcss.ca/covid-19.html  
 
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email, email vcss@gov.yk.ca, or call the school at 667-5901. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Katrina Brogdon, acting principal and Alethea Wallace, vice-principal 
 
Week at a glance  
Monday November 2nd 

• Senior School – Day 2  
• Literacy Assessment  

• M-S @ 8:45 am in LC  
• A-F @ 12:45 pm in LC  

• OurSCHOOL Survey  

• Grade 9 in class, Grade 10 (M-S, A-F) after Literacy Assessment  

• JR Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in Learning Commons  

Tuesday November 3rd 

• Senior School – Day 1  
• Literacy Assessment  

• T-Z @ 8:45 am in LC  
• G-L @ 12:45 pm in LC  

• OurSCHOOL Survey  

• Grade 8 in class, Grade 10 (T-Z, G-L) after Literacy Assessment, Grade 12 – during CLC  

• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC  

Wednesday November 4th 

• Senior School – Day 2  

• Literacy Assessment  

• Fundamentals of English – during class time in Room 5  
• Catch Up – for anyone who couldn’t write – in LC  

• OurSCHOOL Survey  

• Grade 10 Fundamentals of English after Literacy Assessment, Grade 11 – during 5/6 block  

• X block = 4  
• SR Social Justice Club @ 11:30 am in LC  
• JR and SR Art Club @ Lunch  
• Alpha – grade 8 @ 12:15 pm  
• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm  
• CEAY AGM meeting 7:00-9:00 pm Vanier Learning Commons 

Thursday November 5th  

• Senior School – Day 1  
• OurSCHOOL Survey  

• Grade 11 and 12 – Catch-up in LC  

• Board Games Club @ 12:15 pm in LC  

• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm  

Friday November 6th 

• Senior School – Day 2  
• OurSCHOOL Survey  

• Any student who has not completed survey  

Tuesday, November 10th   

• Junior School Student Led Conferences 

• Grade 8s – 3:30-5:00 
• Grade 9s – 5:30-7:00 

Wednesday, November 11th  

• Remembrance Day – NO SCHOOL  

Thursday, November 12th   

• Senior School Student Led Conferences 

• M-Z – 3:30-5:00 
• A-L – 5:30-7:00 

 
​Literacy Assessment this week 
All Grade 10 students are expected to write their Grade 10 Literacy Assessment this week and were given specific information on how to prepare during short assemblies and by email last week.  There will be many opportunities to catch up or rewrite in the future. Grade 11 and 12 students who would like to write or re-write either the Literacy or Numeracy Assessments can see either Ms. Wallace or Ms. Brogdon to sign up for Wednesday’s catch-up/re-write day. 

Report cards mailed this week 
The office is the process of verifying and sorting academic interim reports (Junior school) and report cards (Senior school) and will be mailing packages to households with all reports included. 
 
Student Led Conferences coming next week  
Student Led Conferences will occur next week on Tuesday (Junior school) and Thursday (Senior school). 
After much thought and consideration, we have decided to keep a similar format as in years past – classrooms will be open for drop-in conferences during specific windows of time to limit the total number of students/families in the school.  Each teacher will be assigned to a specific room which will, in most cases, allow for 3 conferences to occur simultaneously.  There will be waiting rooms assigned to each teacher if their classrooms are full. 
We ask that all students and parents/guardians wear masks, especially when waiting or transiting between classrooms in hallways. 
 
Grade 8 & 9 lockers assignments are coming!  
Due to the colder weather and the need to store coats and boots, we are planning to assign lockers throughout the school to Grade 8 and 9 students.  Lockers will be spaced out with 2 lockers between each locker being used.  This will mean that lockers may be some distance away from the student’s homeroom classroom. These lockers are only meant to store outerwear and boots may only be accessed at the start and end of the day along with the start and end of lunch.  All class materials will remain being stored in classroom bins.  Lockers have always served as a gathering spot for students and this is precisely what we don’t want to have happen. New locker use agreements with Covid-19 rules and processes will be distributed and will be required to be signed prior to the issuance of a locker and lock combination (the school will supply locks – there is no need for students or families to purchase or supply one). 
 
OurSchool survey – a Yukon-wide student survey  
Dear Parent/Guardian,   

Vanier Catholic Secondary, along with all Yukon schools, will be participating in an online school perception survey for students called the OurSCHOOL Student Survey. Please find the details of the survey implementation below.   

Who: All students, grades 8 through 12 
When: Week of November 2-6 
Where: In classrooms using school technology 
Why: to measure student engagement, increase student involvement & sense of belonging at school  
 
About the OurSCHOOL Student Survey:  

• Allows students to share their feedback anonymously on their experiences at school, school environment, and school improvement programs.    

• Based on their feedback, students have the opportunity to be involved in action plans fostering increased student engagement  
• Participation in the survey is voluntary, however, all students are encouraged to participate.   
• The time required to complete the survey may vary, but it is designed to be completed in approximately 35-40 minutes.  

 
Survey measures include such topics as behaviours and attitudes linked to student success, emotional and social well-being and physical health. For more information about the OurSCHOOL Student Survey, please visit The Learning Bar’s website: www.thelearningbar.com.   
  
If you have questions or would like to request more information about Vanier’s upcoming implementation of the OurSCHOOL Student Survey, please contact the school or David McInnes david.mcinnes@gov.yk.ca 867-667-5871.  
  
Sincerely,  
David McInnes  
Director- Technology and Student Information  
Yukon Department of Education  
  
Service Learning opportunities  
​We are continuing with our service learning requirements as part of our Religion 8 through 11 requirements (which also help us meet the 30 hours requirement for graduation).  
We understand that it is more difficult, due to COVID-19, to engage in many of the service learning opportunities that students have engaged in previously.  Here are some opportunities that can be done independently and logged/acknowledged by parents:  

• Babysit or pet-sit  

• Tutor siblings or sign up for our tutoring program  
• Do errands, cook for, or otherwise help someone out  
• Shovel snow  
• Do something helpful for extended family or your “double bubble” family  

10/26/2020

Dear Vanier students and families: 
Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5 
Dear Lord, I trust in you. I may not understand but I know you are working things out for my good. Thank you for taking care of me. You never let me down. Amen. 


The next few weeks will be very busy!  The end of this reporting period, Student Led Conferences, Literacy Assessment for Grade 10s (with catch up/rewrite Literacy/Numeracy Assessments for grades 11 and 12), and a Yukon-side student survey are just a few things that are coming up!  Please make note of the important dates listed below. 
As mentioned on Friday, our COVID-19 plan has been updated to reflect our expectation that students are wearing masks in common areas like hallways, bathrooms, etc.  Our COVID-19 plan and related documentation can be found here: https://www.vcss.ca/covid-19.html  
One of the things we have been working hard at developing in order to build and maintain our sense of community despite the limitations posed by the pandemic was developing a “house families” structure to safely allow for some fun interactions inside and outside of classrooms.  We partnered with our Yukon First Nations partners to develop a system of 4 families within our school based on the medicine wheel: 

• Keepers of Water  
• Keepers of Fire  
• Keepers of Earth  

• Keepers of Air  

All our students and staff have been divided up into these families and we will be having activities and challenges periodically throughout the year to earn points for each family.  Thank you to Mr. Gillard, Ms. Gray, Mr. Cassidy, Ms. Holway, Ms. Leslie, Mr. Gray, and Ms. Wallace for working together to develop this initiative along with Philip Gatensby. 
Finally, this will likely be the last News from Vanier email from Mr. Sikkes for the next while as he is taking a temporary assignment at the Department of Education.  Ms. Katrina Brogdon will be acting as principal during his absence. 
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email, email vcss@gov.yk.ca, or call the school at 667-5901. 
Sincerely, 
Ryan Sikkes, principal and Alethea Wallace, vice-principal 


This week at a Glance...and then some! 
Monday, October 26th  

• Senior School - Day 1  

• Jr. Social Justice Club @12:15 pm in Learning Commons  
• Jr. and Sr. Art Club @ Lunch

Tuesday, October 27th  

• Semester One Halfway Point  

• Senior School - Day 2  
• Grade 10 Assembly re: Literacy Assessment @ 11:15 and 3:05 in small gym  

Wednesday, October 28th 

• Senior School - Day 1  
• Junior School - PLC (Early Dismissal) @ 2:15 pm  

• Sr. Social Justice Club @ 11:30 am in LC  
• Alpha – grade 8 @ 12:15 pm  
• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm  
• Deadline to register for FH Collins’ parent information night about online bullying and sexting (see below) 

Thursday, October 29th  

• Senior School - Day 2  
• Workout Club @ 3:30-4:30 pm  

Friday, October 30th  

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Report Card Marks are due in office  

Monday, November 2nd   

• All Souls’ Day 
• Senior School - Day 2  
• Yukon-wide student survey window opens 
• Grade 10 Literacy Assessment in Learning Commons 

• 8:45 Morning – Surnames M-S 

• 12: 45 Afternoon – Surnames A-F 

• FH Collins’ parent information night about online bullying and sexting (see below) 

Tuesday, November 3rd   

• Senior School - Day 1 
• Grade 10 Literacy Assessment in Learning Commons 

• 8:45 Morning – Surnames T-Z 
• 12: 45 Afternoon – Surnames G-L 

Wednesday, November 4th  

• Senior School - Day 2 
• Grade 10 Literacy Assessment in Learning Commons 

• 8:45 Morning – Fundamentals of English 10 and Catch-up 
• 12: 45 Afternoon – Fundamentals of English 10 and Catch-up 

Tuesday, November 10th  

• Junior School Student Led Conferences - details TBA next week 

Wednesday, November 11th 

• Remembrance Day – NO SCHOOL 

Thursday, November 12th  

• Senior School Student Led Conferences - details TBA next week 

Online bullying and sexting parent information session 
In response to the growing concerns of the cyberbullying that is occurring amongst youth in Whitehorse, FH Collins will be hosting a live webinar for parents presented by The White Hatter on Monday, November 2nd from 7pm to 9 pm.  
FH Collins is very kindly allowing Vanier parents/guardians to sign for this workshop.  In order to access the parent presentation, we require your consent to provide The White Hatter with your email address. They will then send out a link and access code for the presentation.  If you want access to this presentation, please email Amy.Garcia-Baker@gov.yk.ca  or call the FH Collins main office at 667-8665 with your name and the email address you will be using for the presentation.  We need confirmation of permission by October 28th.  
This session includes a 30-minute presentation on Monitoring, Filtering, and Other Tools for Parents & Caregivers. This company has been recommended by the RCMP to help educate parents and students on these topics. More information about this company can be found online at: www.thewhitehatter.ca   
A recording of the webinar will be available for those that cannot sign in on November 2nd.  
Teen Sexting, Nudes, Distribution of Intimate Images, and the Law (60 minutes + 30-minute Q&A) This program covers teen “sexting” based on academic peer-reviewed research, laws, and our investigative experience to help teens understand consent, choices, consequences and how they can take specific actions to reduce legal liability and reduce harm emotionally, psychologically, physically and socially specific to this subject. 
Monitoring, Filtering, and Other Tools for Parents & Caregivers (30 minutes) An overview of the various tools and resource available for families to help manage online connection and communication. No tool is 100% effective but learn about the products and resources that we recommend for families. 


Literacy Assessment 10 next week 
Literacy and Numeracy Assessments at the Grade 10 level are graduation requirements.  These assessments are written online.  Vanier usually has students write their Literacy Assessments in the fall and Numeracy in the winter during the weeks that are designated for the assessments determined by the British Columbia Ministry of Education. 
We will have short assemblies for the Grade 10 students who need to write their assessments on Tuesday, October 27 near the end of each shift.   
While these assessments are required for graduation, there is no minimum score required to graduate.  Students who are unsatisfied with their score may choose to rewrite their assessments up to two more times. 
For more information about the Literacy Assessment, as well as links to practice assessments, visit: https://curriculum.gov.bc.ca/assessment/literacy-assessment/grade-10-literacy-assessment  


Report cards mailed next week 
Teachers are required to submit their academic interim reports (Junior school) and report card marks (Senior school) to the office by the end of this week.  Students who have overdue or missed assignments need to get those handed in right away so teachers can mark them and include them in the report card mark. 
Student Led Conferences will happen on November 10 (Juniors) and 12 (Seniors) and will focus on the interims and report cards sent home.  Due to COVID-19 most of these conferences will happen at home, but some students and families will have the opportunity to book an in-person appointment at the school, over the phone, or on Zoom during those days. 


Service Learning opportunities 
We are continuing with our service learning requirements as part of our Religion 8 through 11 requirements (which also help us meet the 30 hours requirement for graduation). 
We understand that it is more difficult, due to COVID-19, to engage in many of the service learning opportunities that students have engaged in previously.  Here are some opportunities that can be done independently and logged/acknowledged by parents: 

• Babysit or pet-sit 
• Tutor siblings or sign up for our tutoring program 
• Do errands, cook for, or otherwise help someone out 
• Shovel snow 

• Do something helpful for extended family or your “double bubble” family 
• Check with Mr. Stoker about scorekeeping or being a lines-person for volleyball 

Halloween and All Souls Day 
Halloween is, of course, this coming Saturday and we do welcome students to wear appropriate costumes to school this Friday if they so choose.  We will also pray in a special way as a school the following Monday, November 2 – All Souls’ Day – for all those who have died. 


School Handbook 
Our school council, at their recent AGM, approved our updated School Handbook.  It was not completely overhauled to reflect the COVID-19 changes, but will still serve as a valuable resource for students and parents/guardians on many topics.  The updated version can be found on our website: https://www.vcss.ca/school-documents.html    

Dear Vanier students and families: 
This is a special edition Friday email with some important news and information: 

• Covid-19 operational plan adjustment effective Monday 
• Inappropriate/disruptive use of personal devices in classrooms 
• Mr. Sikkes on temporary assignment starting November 2nd 

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reply to this email, email vcss@gov.yk.ca, or call the school at 667-5901 
Have a great weekend! 
Sincerely, 
Ryan Sikkes, principal and Alethea Wallace, vice-principal 


Covid-19 operational plan adjustment 
Due to the colder weather which is causing more students to choose to remain indoors, the increasing number of Covid-19 cases in and out of Yukon, and our continued difficulties enforcing physical distancing outside of classrooms, the following update to our Covid-19 operation plan will be in place, effective Monday, October 26. 
It is recommended that students age 10 and older (Grade 4 and up) wear nonmedical masks in school settings where physical distancing cannot be maintained. Inside of classrooms, we can maximize physical distancing, therefore at this time masks are not required in classrooms.  When students are not in their assigned classrooms, the following changes will occur:  

• Masks are not required at this time when students are outside of the school building.  
• Masks are not required at this time when students are by themselves in the hallways while transiting to another part of the school. 
• We will expect students to wear a mask (reusable or disposable) where social distancing is not happening consistently:  in hallways, other common spaces, Learning Commons, gymnasia, cafeteria, and bathrooms. This includes during class change times, waiting for the gym to open at lunch, waiting in the morning for classes to open or any other time there are two or more people together.    

Essentially, we want to have students develop the routine and habit of wearing masks in the hallways and other common areas, because wearing a mask can help to protect others by containing droplets made when you sneeze, cough and speak. All students were issued reusable masks earlier this year.  Replacement masks or disposable masks are available in the main office. 


Inappropriate/disruptive use of personal devices in classrooms 
We are continuing to struggle with technology use during class times.  Of course, in the senior school there is more technology use in classes but less so in the junior school. 
We will be enforcing the following policy: Personal devices may not be seen, heard, nor used in classrooms during class time unless authorized by a teacher for a specific purpose related to the class. 
Students who are not able to adhere to this policy may have their device held by the teacher or in the office until the end of the day or, in repeat circumstances, until a parent/guardian comes to collect the device. 
We thank all parents/guardians for your support and cooperation regarding this issue. Also we gently remind parents that if you need to get in touch with your child during class time, please call the school at 667-5901 and we will make sure your child gets the message to return your call at their break time.  


Mr. Sikkes on temporary assignment starting November 2nd 
Dear Vanier students and families: 
I will be working away from Vanier for the next several weeks on a temporary assignment as an acting superintendent starting November 2 until a permanent superintendent is in place. 
Katrina Brogdon will be the principal while I am away.  She has served as a vice-principal of Vanier for several years during my educational leave and has also previously been the principal of Takhini Elementary.  I wouldn’t consider being away from the school if I didn’t think the school would be in good hands and I am confident that Ms. Brogdon and Ms. Wallace will do an excellent job leading and administering the school. 
I know there is never a good time to be away, and this is a particularly difficult time.  I am confident that our school is very well positioned to continue its positive trajectory.  Even under the circumstances of Covid-19, I absolutely believe this to be the case.   
Please pray for me as I undertake this assignment – it will stretch my professional and interpersonal skills – and I have very mixed feelings about being away from Vanier.  Please pray for Ms. Brogdon and Ms. Wallace and all the staff as they adjust to this change. 
Sincerely, 
Mr. Sikkes ​