Dear West Springs Families, 

It was a busy week!  Thank you so much to Mrs. Wright for organizing our Terry Fox Run and assembly. We were excited to hear some grade 4 perspective writing samples about what Terry’s running shoes would say if they could talk. Well done Grade 4s!  

We are still working on finalizing the total funds raised and thank everyone who has donated so far. There’s still time online or in person; we will take donations until the end of next week. That said, the Terry Fox run is so much more than just a fundraiser for cancer research; it is a testament to the strength of our community spirit and our shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of loved ones, friends and complete strangers. It is a demonstration of unity and belonging. When we get together to gather at the start line, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from; we are all part of something bigger than ourselves. 

Thanks to all the families who joined us to volunteer and run together. We appreciate your support! 

 

Orange Shirt Day  

In remembrance of the children and survivors of the residential schools, CBE understands the importance of this journey toward healing, understanding and unity, not just as a public school district but as educators, staff and community members. Our system continues to learn, grow, understand, and honour Indigenous ways of being, belonging, doing and knowing.  

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is intended to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action No. 80.   

At West Springs School we read these two books, feel free to view them as a family or check out a copy from our library. 

CBE encourages staff, teachers and families to participate by attending the City of Calgary event  at 9 AM, Monday, Sep. 30 or consider participating in one of the many community-led National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events around the city.   

 

Attendance at School 

Research shows that regular school attendance has an important impact on a student’s success in school starting in kindergarten and continuing through high school. Even as children grow older and more independent, families play a key role in making sure students get to school safely every day. When students miss too much school it can cause them to fall behind academically and socially.   

  

We realize some absences are unavoidable due to health problems or other circumstances. Please take note that the following absences will be excused:  

  

  • If your child is sick or has a medical or dental appointment.  Sometimes your child’s school may request a medical note to support these absences. 
  • If you have a family emergency or a funeral. 
  • If you have a religious or cultural observance. 
  • If there is a court appearance directly related to your child. 
  • If CBE advises of extreme weather; if there are transportation cancellations due to weather.  
  • Please ensure your child is appropriately dressed for the weather. If you require assistance with obtaining winter clothing please contact the school. 
  • If your child is suspended, expelled, or on a home supported leave from school. 

We recognize enrichment activities and travel may present unique learning opportunities for your child. It is important to remember that these absences can create gaps in student learning and social development. It will be your responsibility as a parent/guardian to support your child’s learning if you choose to allow your child to miss school days for these activities. Please take note that the following absences will be unexcused:  

  • If you take a vacation or family holiday during school days.  
  • CBE provides many opportunities for families to holiday during winter, spring and summer breaks.  We encourage you to book holidays during these breaks.  
  • If your child needs to start late or leave early from school, due to non-school related extracurricular activities (athletic activities, enrichment programs, music programs, theatre performances, etc.)  

  

It is helpful for us when we have been notified in advance of your child’s absence. Please call our office to inform us of days when your child will be away.  

  

If you have any questions or need more information please contact us. 

 

Have a great weekend, 

Susan and Leah, WSS Admin Team