February was filled with activities that ranged from conquering the ski hill and the skating rink to landing the big one, along with a pancake supper and prayer service in Arnprior and Calabogie Catholic elementary schools.
It’s been a busy and exciting month at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Calabogie, with winter outdoor education programs wrapping up as February comes to an end.
“Students from JK to Grade 8 have enjoyed learning how to ski or continuing to develop their skiing skills during the annual four-week ski program at the Calabogie Peaks. This program would not be possible without the support of the Calabogie Peaks staff and all of our SJC volunteers,” noted Principal Heidi Fraser.
“This year we are also very fortunate to have students from the new Leadership Course at St. Joseph’s High School assisting throughout the ski program. Students look forward to this program every year, and we are so fortunate to have a school in this beautiful community that has a fantastic ski hill just down the road!”
On February 16, the whole school ventured onto Calabogie Lake to learn all about ice fishing.
“We had a very knowledgeable group of instructors to assist the SJC staff and students and make the day a memorable one! A big thank you to Rick Klatt, Ashley Rae, Cara Carmichael and Blake Corbin for helping educate our students. This day is always full of smiles, laughter and memories that will last a lifetime,” said Fraser.
In addition to all of the exciting outdoor education experiences happening at SJC, the school is also in the middle of two exciting renovations. On the lower level, the Township of Greater Madawaska has begun renovating two rooms, which will house the new Greater Madawaska Public Library.
“SJC staff and students can’t wait to officially welcome librarian Sharon Shalla, and all of our community members when the library is complete!” said Fraser.
On the upper level, a room previously used as the library/computer lab is being completely renovated and renamed the “C-Lab”. This room will provide a space for experiential learning through both low-tech and high-tech materials and tools. The C-Lab will be outfitted with new furniture, new technology, robotic and coding equipment, a sound booth and a variety of flexible seating spaces for collaborative activities.
On Tuesday February 13, the school council at St. Joseph Catholic School in Arnprior hosted its annual pancake supper. The griddles were hot and the sausage and ham were cooked to perfection! Approximately 400 suppers were served throughout the evening to family, friends and community members.
“There were pancakes, waffles, homemade beans, sausages, ham and warm fruit topping on hand for all to enjoy. This event could not run without the volunteers who ensure it is a huge success,” noted Principal Derek Lennox.
Lots of exciting things have also been going on over the past few weeks at St. John XXIII Catholic School in Arnprior.
Staff and students demonstrated amazing school spirit on ‘opposite day’, ‘favourite book character day’ and ‘red and pink’ day.
“On opposite day, some boys dressed as girls and some girls dressed as boys, some people dressed in summer clothes instead of winter clothes, some students dressed as teachers or had their clothes inside out or backwards,” explained Principal Christine Brown.
Students celebrated Valentine’s Day a little early with a fun and festive Family Valentine’s Day dance on Thursday, February 8, hosted by school council. “The turn out and spirit was wonderful,” stated Brown.
All grade levels have been traveling to the Nick Smith Centre for skating, with each class getting out on the ice at least twice.
Students welcomed Mr. Klatt and enjoyed two days of fundamental movement skill development during physical education classes.
On February 26, the school participated in a special Earth Rangers assembly. “This is an interactive, multi-media experience that features live animal ambassadors demonstrating their natural behaviours,” said Brown. “They use science-based information to educate children about the importance of protecting biodiversity.“
Seminarian Michael Coyne and Deacon Michael Doherty visited the school to distribute ashes on Ash Wednesday and mark the beginning of Lent. St. John XXIII will continue to focus on Lent during a prayer service led by students on Tuesday, February 27.
February 26, 2018
For further information, please contact:
Jaimie Perry, Director of Education
Renfrew County Catholic District School Board
499 Pembroke Street West
Pembroke, ON K8A 5P1
Phone: 613-735-1031 or 1-800-267-0191
