Dear Vincent Massey families, 

We've been having a productive professional development day today, looking at how to support English Language Learners and apply the many transferable skills from that area to the instruction of writing across all our classes. One of our activities was sharing examples of student writing across classes and grades. I was impressed by the level of self-reflection and personal growth that is expressed in students' journals. I'm also very appreciative of our staff's skill, not only in teaching writing but also in building relationships with students that help them feel comfortable in expressing themselves. 

For Grade 9 students, the high school course recommendation and selection process is nearly complete, although different schools have slightly different timelines. Please note that, if you are considering applying for a transfer to a different high school, the application process is now open and closes on March 15. More information can be found here: https://cbe.ab.ca/registration/transfers/high-school-transfers/Pages/program-or-sequence-of-courses-request.aspx 

Next Wednesday evening, we will be holding our regular School Council meeting at 6:30pm. Due to the current labour action, this meeting will be held online and can be accessed using this link. Items on the agenda include upgrades to our security camera system and a new mural project, which will add an Indigenous art installation to the north-east wall of our school. All parents and legal guardians are automatically members of School Council. Your participation and feedback is appreciated. 

With the current run of warmer weather, we’ve been sending students outside at lunchtime, if they are not under the direct supervision of a teacher (such as in a club or getting extra help). As communicated last week, our learning commons will be a food-free zone at lunchtime, to support students observing fasting for Ramadan, which begins tonight and extends through March. 

Last but certainly not least, thank you to Mr. Hall and all the teachers and parent volunteers who supported the Grade 7 classes at the Calgary Hitmen "Be Brave" hockey game. I think that everyone (principal included!) had a great time at this event!

Here are the upcoming events for the next two weeks: 

Please note that regular morning Band practices resume this week 

• March 5 
• • Jr Boys Volleyball @ Griffith Woods 
  • Sr Boys Volleyball @ West Ridge 
  • School Council Meeting at 6:30 online, see above for more information 
• March 6 
• • Vaccines for students who missed the last round
  • Jr Girls Volleyball @ Vincent Massey 
  • Sr Girls Volleyball @ Bishop Pinkham 
  • Grade 7 Band Camp Parent Meeting @ 6:30pm at Vincent Massey 
• March 11 - Grade 8 Outdoor Education Snowshoeing 
• March 12 
• • Boys Volleyball Semi-finals, location to be confirmed 
  • Jazz Band at Ernest Manning Gala 
• March 13 
• • Girls Volleyball Semi-finals at Griffith Woods 

All the best, 

David Pugh 

Principal