Dear students and families,

We had another joyful week of learning at GFSS with a special focus on our school goal to foster a positive school culture. We were grateful to host Joanie Holmes (Elder-in-Residence) as she led our grades 8s and 9s in Talking Circles focused on the concepts in the Circle of Courage. Additionally, this week we enjoyed learning more about the history and legacy of Métis leader, Louis Riel. We finished with Fun Friday including a pancake breakfast served up by student council followed later by a staff-organized trivia contest.

This coming week, students will be given a Written Learning Update. It is intended to communicate your child’s progress for the first half of our first semester. We encourage students and families discuss the update with each other. Teachers have written descriptive feedback about your child’s current strengths, current areas for growth, and next steps with suggestions. Additionally, students in grades 10, 11, and 12 receive a percent and letter grade while students in grades 8 and 9 receive a proficiency scale assessment ranging from emerging – developing – proficient – extending. We invite you review the K-12 Student Reporting Information for Parents and Caregivers Package to learn more about communicating learning at GFSS.

It is important for us to work together as partners for your child’s learning journey, so please contact us if you have any questions.

Limləmt (means thank you in Nsyilxcən, — Okanagan Language)

~Tom Eccleston, Principal GFSS

Reminders…

• Our school PAC is looking for volunteers for their fall fundraisers. Please email gfsspacpresident@gmail.com if you can help.
• Send positive wishes our swimming team to continue having a great experience at the Provincials this weekend in Richmond.

For your calendar…

• Nov 18, 6pm  PAC Meeting in the bistro (virtually using this link)
• Nov 19-21      Written Learning Updates go home
• Nov 23            Grad Christmas Craft Fair
• Nov 28            Staff versus student Volleyball (at lunch)
• Dec 5-8, 18th   Drama production (click for details)
• Dec 9-14         School Spirit Days (check the bulletin board for details)
• Dec 18            Band + Drama Winter Gala