Newswire - St. Mary's High School

Policy/Program Memorandum 170

As you may be aware, the Ontario Ministry of Education has introduced Policy/Program Memorandum 170 (effective: the start of the 2024-2025 school year). PPM 170 includes standardized guidelines which boards of education will adhere to in order to enhance communication and engagement between parents and school boards.

Please note the following Information regarding PPM 170:

Parent Communication Requirements

PPM 170 requires school boards to make parents aware of information, resources and supports available to help them support their child’s education. We are mandated to share this information upon the registration of new students, and at the start of each school year.

school year calendar
information about PA days
guest speakers
safe and accepting schools
safe arrival program
report cards
parent-teacher meetings
code of conduct
healthy schools’ information
specialized resources and supports
(special education, supports for Indigenous students, French language supports, supporting students

1st Meeting – Catholic Schools Advisory Council – 2024-2025 – Sept. 24th

Dear Eagles Parents/Guardians:

The first meeting of the Catholic Schools Advisory Council (parent council) for the 2024-2025 school year will be held at St Mary’s on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, at 6:00 pm, in the main office boardroom.

All voices and faces are welcome.
We meet 4 to 5 times in the school year and make meaningful differences in the lives of St. Mary’s students.

2024-2025 meeting dates:

Tuesday, September 24, 2024, 6:00 pm
Tuesday, November 19, 2024, 6:00 pm
Tuesday, February 18, 2025, 6:00 pm
Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 6:00 pm
Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 6:00 pm

New and returning members:
Please RSVP your self-nomination to the school principal: David.Jaeger@wcdsb.ca
In confidence, please include your full name and the name(s) of your child(ren).

Thank you very much for considering joining CSAC this year.

Picture Day – Tues., Sept. 17th

Greetings students & families,

This upcoming Tuesday, September 17th is 📸 PICTURE DAY 📸 at SMH!

Students are required to be in UNIFORM for their photo. Students will be called down (to Gym #3) with their classes according to the following schedule:

Period 1 – Grade 12 Course Codes
Period 2 – Grade 9 Course Codes
Period 3/4 – Grade 11 Course Codes
Period 5 – Grade 10 Course Codes

Location: Gym #3 – please click here for student instructions & layout of the gym: Gym Layout

Important notes:

If you are a grade 11/12 student that will get missed by this schedule due to spares in your schedule, please plan to get yourself to the gym and get your photo done during your lunch period, or period 1 or 3/4 spare.
Co-op students have the opportunity to come

VAPING – Important Info for SMH Families & Students from the Ministry of Education and WCDSB

Smoke Free Environments 

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 prohibits smoking (tobacco and cannabis) and the use of electronic cigarettes (vaping) at schools, on school grounds, and all public areas within 20 metres of these grounds. Anyone smoking or vaping on school property is guilty of an offence and if convicted may result in a fine under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

The Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 also prohibits the sale and supply of tobacco or e-cigarettes to anyone under 19 years of age. Anyone who sells or supplies tobacco or an e-cigarette to a student under 19 years of age is guilty of an offence and if convicted may result in a fine under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017.

The use of vapes is strictly prohibited in all schools.

In the case of these substances being found in the possession of students, parents will be notified, and the student must surrender the item(s) to the educator or administrator. Progressive discipline and policy APC

CELL PHONES – Important Info for SMH Families & Students from the Ministry of Education and WCDSB

Cell Phone Use in Schools 

In accordance with the Ontario Ministry of Education’s directives under Ontario Program Memorandum 128, we are implementing important changes in our schools aimed at fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

These updates are designed to set clear expectations and provide the necessary guidance to help our students thrive academically and develop the discipline required for lifelong learning. We believe that these changes will better prepare our students for success both inside and outside the classroom.

Changes to Cell Phone Policy:  

Starting September 2024, the use of cell phones and personal mobile devices will be restricted during the instructional day. This policy is part of our ongoing commitment to reduce distractions and promote better academic engagement and student well-being.

As educators, we have a duty to enforce these changes and ensure compliance with the Provincial Code of Conduct. We will be working closely with staff and students to