ADS Newsletter
June 13th, 2025

Hello Acton Families,

Wow! Last night we held a wonderful Secondary Athletic Banquet at the Town Hall and then started off this morning with a fantastic breakfast for our Gr 12 graduates. Our Grade 7s are off to an exciting time at Canada’s Wonderland today. Just Wow. Our teachers and office staff are extraordinary people commit numerous extra hours of their time to make events wonderful for students. All the details are taken care of and everything is done with heart. I am lucky to be the Principal of such a warm and nurturing school.

In the next two weeks, the emphasis is on academics. Students need to give that last big push to complete outstanding work, and if you have secondary students, set up a study schedule to review before exams. Teachers are on deck for extra help and thorough review to help students feel prepared and confident going into their Final Performance Tasks and Exams. I wish all students well as they work hard on their final 30% and have a strong finish. Summer holidays are great, but even better after all credits are earned in June. Parents, help your students with self-discipline. Designate a place in your home for quiet study where there are minimal distractions. Set up a phone/study schedule to allow breaks from social media but also times when they can use it. Ask your students to teach you some of the concepts they are studying. Our students’ success depends on the support of both home and school so let’s focus on getting ‘our’ students to the finish line together.

I am really looking forward to Monday which is “Grade 6 Day” here at Acton District. We are ready to meet our new students and show them their cool new school. Then in the evening on Monday, I hope to see all the parents of our grade 6 incomings for a chat and meet and greet. Welcome new Bearcats!!

Have a great weekend,

Kelli

🎓✨ A huge thank you to Luciano and Sarah, the owners of No Frills Acton, Bethel Church, and Shannon and Geneen Furzer for your generous support of our 2025 Grad Breakfast! Your contributions helped make this celebration extra special for our graduates. We are so grateful for your kindness and community spirit! 💛👏 #Grad2025 #CommunitySupport #ThankYou

🎓🌟 Congratulations to the Acton District School Class of 2025! 🌟🎓
This morning's Grad Breakfast was a beautiful way to celebrate your achievements and kick off the final countdown to graduation.

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible staff for organizing such a memorable event — your hard work and dedication made it all possible! 💙💛

Here’s to the bright futures ahead! #ActonGrad2025 #ProudToBeABearcat #GradBreakfast #ThankYouStaff

Acton All-Stars: Banquet Highlights:

Thursday we hosted our athletic banquet at the Acton Town Hall. The night was a great showing of all the incredible athletes and the many teams our school supports. We celebrated the hard work of all our teams this year: Golf, curling, volleyball, soccer, baseball, cross country, track and field, swimming, ultimate frisbee, hockey and more! Congratulations to all our athletes and the incredible accomplishments of some of our award winners- the OFSAA competitors that represented our school at provincial competitions, and the HSSAA winners! Thank you to all our community coaches, and our staff coaches that volunteered hours of early morning practices, late night bus trips and extra gym times. We couldn’t have done it without everyone’s support!

Jackson Baeumler
Senior Male Athlete of the Year!

Morgan Horne
Senior Female Athlete of the Year!

Joel Paul
Junior Male Athlete of the Year!

Astrid Houston
Junior Female Athlete of the Year!

Acton Achievers

This year’s Acton Achievers event was a meaningful and memorable celebration of the incredible accomplishments of our students. With over 90 people in attendance and 30 students recognized, the morning was filled with pride, inspiration, and community spirit.

Each award was thoughtfully tailored to reflect the individual strengths, growth, and unique contributions of our students—making it a truly special occasion. From academic achievements to personal growth, the event served as a powerful reminder of the diverse talents that make our school community so vibrant.

A special thank you goes out to Mr. Brown, Ms. Fossey, Ms. Warner, Ms. Hayes, Ms. Anceriz, Mr. Leckie, and Ms. Andrew for nominating students and arriving bright and early to present their awards. Your dedication to recognizing and uplifting students does not go unnoticed.

We’d also like to thank Ms. Fossey once again for her excellent work as MC, and Ms. Toniolo for managing the audio, helping with setup, and making sure the coffee and tea were ready to go!

Finally, a big thank you to the families who joined us to support their students. Your presence made the morning even more special and meaningful for everyone involved.

Congratulations again to all of our Acton Achievers!

Take advantage of the upcoming Credit Rescue sessions over the next few weeks! This is a valuable opportunity to catch up on missed work, improve your grades, and strengthen your understanding before final performance tasks and exams. Don’t wait—use this time to finish strong and set yourself up for success!

Need Extra Help? Room 202 Is Open!

As we head into the final stretch of the semester, a reminder that Room 202 will be open on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday next week for any students looking for last-minute support. Whether you need help completing assignments, finishing up FPTs, or just want a quiet space to review for exams, you’re welcome to stop by.

Feel free to email Ms. Flynn with any questions—or just drop in during your lunch or spare. Let’s finish strong!

Grade 8 Graduation

Our Grade 8 graduation is Wednesday June 25th at 6pm.

We ask that students arrive at school at 5:30pm so that we can organize into alphabetical order for the processional in order to begin on time.

Please note the doors to the cafeteria will not be opened before 5:45pm. The seats in the first few rows are reserved for graduates and staff. Not to worry we have reserved seating for families to come up and take pictures when your graduate walks across the stage.

The graduation dance is for ADS graduates only. The dance ends at 9:30pm promptly. Please be sure you communicate with your child the plan for pickup.

The grade 9/10 Immersion class and Madame Shire visited the Acton Youth Center today. They participated in a variety of activities for their well being.

Ice Cream Truck:

An Ice Cream Truck will be coming to ADS from 12:20-2:20pm on June 18th. Prices will be standard ice cream truck rates - $5-10 should be sufficient for students to bring. The time aligns with the modified secondary schedule happening this day to be present for our secondary lunches - and it also coordinates with the 7/8 2nd break.

Grade 12 Graduation

Grade 12 Graduation will be on Thursday June 26 at 5pm here at Acton District School. More details will be shared closer to the time.

Grad packages are now ready for purchase on School Cash Online for $45 and the package includes:

https://hdsb.schoolcashonline.com/Fee/Details/157880/181/False/True

A Gown and Class of 2025 Cap

Grad Breakfast (June 13th-more details to follow) and commemorative gift

Decorations

Photobooth and Photos

Printing Services

Please order your packages as soon as possible as the deadline was June 2nd.

Please make sure to complete and return your commencement RSVP form to Mrs. Norton in Student Services. If you have lost this form, extras are available in Student Services.

Please note that all students who are attending Commencement must purchase a grad package. If you need financial assistance with this purchase, please reach out to our principal.

🎉 Stellar Sellers Returns to Acton District School – Vendor Applications Now Open! 🎉

Mark your calendars! Acton District School is thrilled to announce the return of Stellar Sellers on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at 10:00am - 3:00pm (Vendor set up time at 8:00am-10:00am) This beloved event brings together talented artisans, creative crafters, and enthusiastic shoppers from across our community for a day of festive fun and fantastic finds.

Whether you're looking to get a head start on your holiday shopping or simply enjoy browsing unique handmade goods, Stellar Sellers is the place to be. From one-of-a-kind crafts and homemade treats to seasonal décor and gift ideas, there's something for everyone!

Are You a Craft Vendor?
We’re currently accepting applications from vendors who would like to showcase and sell their items at this year’s event. If you're a local maker or small business interested in participating, please complete the vendor application form here:
👉 Vendor Application Form

Spaces fill up quickly, so don’t wait too long to secure your spot!

Stay tuned for more details as the date approaches—we can’t wait to welcome you back to Stellar Sellers at Acton District School!

School Cash Online

At Acton District., we use School Cash Online for all payments made to the school. It is recommended that you set up your account so you are prepared for any fees that pertain to your student throughout the school year.

Some of the benefits of using School Cash Online include:

· Ability to pay by credit card and Visa debit or echeck(out of bank account)

· Receive reminder emails so you never miss a payment due date

· See only items available to purchase online that are applicable to your student(s)

· Uses Google Translate in over 100 languages to assist you when making purchases

· Make an online donation and receive your tax receipt by email

· Support available 24 x 7

Visit hdsb.schoolcashonline.com to sign up today and have the ability to track all payments made. You will need the Halton student number for your student (not the OEN) in order to set up an account. Please contact the school at 519.853.2920 if you don’t have your student’s number.

Secondary Pizza Day May 15th, 2025

ADS News Website

The yearbook class is still busy creating content and documenting activities happening at ADS! Click this link to access the site. Have something you’d like us to feature? Please reach out to Ms. Hayes at hayesla@hdsb.ca

Pride Month is coming to Acton District School!

The GSA has been busy planning and working to bring a colourful Pride Month to our school. Students and staff are invited to wear their Pride Attire or Rainbow Colours on Monday, June 2nd to kick off the beginning of Pride Month. We will be hosting a Pride Flag raising ceremony on that day as well.

Everyone has a place here at Acton District and we look forward to celebrating that with Pride all year long, but especially during Pride Month!

Extended Absence Reminder

Parents/guardians who withdraw students during school time are advised that, depending on the timing and length of the absence, academic performance of your student may be affected. It is the student’s responsibility to catch-up on missed work.

In secondary school, any absence that is longer than 3 consecutive days is referred to as an extended absence. If you know that your student will be away for more than 3 consecutive school days, please print this Planned Absence Form and fill it in with the information requested 2 weeks prior to the planned absence (hard copies are available in the office). Students should ask their parent/guardian and teachers to fill in the form and once it is complete, the form should be handed in at the main office. The Vice Principal will then review the form and it will be given to the attendance Administrative Assistant for attendance to be entered (absences longer than 3 days are not able to be entered into School Messenger by parents). If you have any questions about this process, please reach out to the main office at 905-847-6875. Thank you.

Acton District School Supports Youth Mental Health Through Art Therapy

This past December, Acton District School's Grade 12 Leadership Class hosted a successful hockey tournament fundraiser focused on supporting youth mental health. Thanks to the incredible effort and community support, half of the proceeds raised were donated to the Acton Youth Centre's to fund a free Art Therapy program in partnership with a local Art Therapist.

With these funds, the Acton Youth Centre has already been able to schedule a confirmed Art Therapy session for Wednesday, May 21st from 4:00–5:00 p.m. Additional sessions are tentatively scheduled for the fall on Monday, September 22nd and Monday, November 17th, also from 4:00–5:00 p.m.

Art Therapy provides young people with a creative outlet to express themselves, process emotions, and build resilience—all essential components of mental wellness. The Leadership Class is proud that the funds raised through their initiative are directly contributing to these impactful sessions, helping support youth in our community.

Thank you to everyone who participated in and supported the tournament—your involvement is making a meaningful difference.

Guidance Staff:

Mrs. Schnekenburger - Head of Guidance

Mr. Brown - Guidance (Period 4)

Mrs. Sint Maung - Guidance (Period 1)
Mrs. Norton - Administrative Assistant

Please visit our Student Services Page on our website for the most up to date information:

https://act.hdsb.ca/student-services

Timetabling Update for the 2025-2026 School Year

We want to inform our school community that the timetabling process for the 2025-2026 school year has begun. As part of this process, we have reviewed course requests, and, unfortunately, some courses with low enrollment have been cancelled.

Students who have been affected by course cancellations have received an email with details about the cancelled course and the alternative course they’ve been enrolled in. Please note that the alternate course is a holding course. If students wish to make any changes, they are encouraged to speak with their guidance counsellor for further assistance.

We encourage families to check in with their child regarding this update and reach out to the school if there are any questions or concerns.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we strive to provide the best learning experience for all of our students.

Grade 12 Students - Community Hours are due by May 30th. This is a requirement to graduate. If you need assistance finding a placement to complete your hours, please come to Guidance, check the Google Classroom, listen to the morning announcements, and check the Bearpit TVs.

If you are looking for Volunteer opportunities, please visit Student Services for assistance.

Are you part of a SHSM and want to see the available Awards and Scholarships? Please click on the link:

SHSM Awards and Scholarships

For additional awards and scholarships, please see the Acton District School website

If you would like more information about SHSM, Dual Credit, OYAP or OYAP FAST please stop by Student Services.

Course changes for next year are now closed while the timetable is being created. You will have an opportunity to meet with your counselor about changes before September.

Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) Month has come to a close! We thank all families who have provided support to HLF throughout this month. Your generosity helps make a lasting difference in the lives of HDSB students.

Each year, HLF supports more than 3,000 students in the HDSB by providing financial support that removes educational barriers and providing the essential resources students need to focus on schoolwork and thrive to their full potential. HLF’s goal is to ensure that they can continue to say ‘yes’ to every request for support received.

There’s still time to make an impact. To learn more or continue the support for HLF Month, visit the HLF Month webpage on the HLF website (haltonlearningfoundation.ca).

Are you an HDSB parent/guardian who could use some help?

If you are an HDSB parent/guardian who needs assistance, please contact your child’s teacher or principal.

Mental Health & Well-Being Information Sessions for Parents/Guardians

The HDSB has announced additional Mental Health & Well-Being Information Sessions for parents/guardians this Spring. We ask that schools help us promote these sessions through social media and newsletters.

HDSB Post-Secondary Exploration Event at Sheridan - Oct 1 and 2, 2025

The Halton District School Board will again partner with Sheridan College to offer a multi-pathway exploration event for Grade 11, 12 and 12+ students and families on October 1 and 2. Where possible, schools are asked not to schedule evening events for senior students on these dates. Tickets will be available to families in early September (a messenger will be sent by School Programs) and a promotional flyer will be shared with schools for their end of year/summer messaging by early June.

From Halton Learning Foundation:

“As the school year winds down, the Halton Learning Foundation (HLF) is launching the ‘Thank a Teacher’ campaign, a meaningful initiative to recognize the incredible contributions of teachers and school staff across HDSB.

Who’s the teacher your child talks most about at dinner? 🍽️ Maybe they’ve come home with a story that made them laugh. 😂 Or mentioned how their teacher wears purple every Monday, or has a cat named Marshmallow.Maybe they told you that their teacher sat with them during break time to discuss a book your child read.

Teachers don’t always know the full impact they have. But you see it, every day — in the confidence your child builds, in the kindness they learn, in the questions they’re excited to ask.Think of the teacher who made your child feel brave when they felt unsure. The one who noticed their spark. The one who wiped their tears.

This is your chance to say thank you. Instead of buying “The World’s Greatest Teacher” mug, or the perfect gift card, you can thank teachers or a school staff member by making a kind donation to help a student in need in their honor. Visit thankmyteacher.ca This way, you will appreciate them by showing them what they taught your kids – to be kind, caring, and compassionate.”

Mental Health Supports for students:

Support Services are available to students year round! If you find yourself in need with your mental health and well-being over the break, you are not alone. Be sure to use one of the resources that are available to you:

ROCK 24 hr crisis line support: 905-878-9785
COAST (16+): 1-877-825-9011
Kids Help Phone (up to age 24): 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868
9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (24 hr support for all ages): call or text 9-8-8.
One Stop Talk Connect with a Therapist: www.onestoptalk.ca or 1-855-416-TALK
Visit HDSB Student Support Services website.

When we welcome students from our International Student Program (ISP) into our schools, our programs benefit, our community benefits and local students create lifelong friendships and global connections. Students in ISP thrive in school when they live in a welcoming, supportive and safe home. Canada Homestay Network (CHN) is currently looking for hosts in Halton for international students joining the HDSB in September.

Why Become a Host?

Becoming a homestay host is an exciting, fulfilling and truly one-of-a-kind experience. You will be giving a young international student the opportunity of a lifetime, while creating lasting memories for your own family.

Hosting an international student is more than just providing a place to stay, it’s about opening your heart and home to an unforgettable cultural exchange. As a host family, you will:

Make a life-changing impact on a young student’s journey
Experience the joy of sharing Canadian traditions
Learn about new cultures, languages and perspectives
Create lifelong friendships and global connections
Bring fresh energy, excitement and curiosity into your home

What You Will Provide
To welcome an international student, you will need to provide:

A private bedroom with a desk and closet;
Three nutritious meals a day (with guidance from CHN)
Access to utilities, including WiFi and laundry
A warm, friendly and supportive environment, just like you would want for your own child studying abroad

Canada Homestay Network (CHN) Support

Hosting is a big decision, and that’s why the HDSB has partnered with CHN, a trusted, not-for-profit organization that has been supporting host families since 1995. Through CHN, host families will receive:

Full training and support to help you feel confident and prepared
24/7 emergency assistance so that you’re never alone in this journey
A generous monthly stipend to help cover expenses

Virtual Information Session for Families
Canada Homestay Network will be hosting two virtual information sessions for families interested in learning more about becoming homestay hosts:

Thursday, May 22 at 7 p.m. – Join virtually here!
Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. – Join virtually here!

Becoming a Homestay Host
Families who are interested in becoming a homestay host can apply online through the CHN Host Portal: https://hostportal.chnonline.ca/apply

Learn more
For more information about becoming a host for an international student, please contact hostinfo@canadahomestaynetwork.ca, call 1-877-441-4443 or visit: https://whyihost.ca.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

The HDSB International Student Program Team

June 18 Bearcat Awards
June 19 Secondary Exams Begin
June 16 Grade 6 Orientation Day
June 24 ELEM: Term 2 Reports Sent Home
June 25 Grade 8 Graduation Ceremony
June 26 Grade 12 Commencement
June 27 Elementary - Last day of Class /PA Day - Secondary
Early Dismissal - 1:50 P.M.
July 3 Secondary Final Report Cards Sent Home