Monday, 31 October 2016

Thank YOU Blue Willow!!

Another Successful Terry Fox Walk at Blue Willow

On September 27, 2016, Blue Willow Public School held its annual Terry Fox Walk. Staff and students walked to raise money for cancer research. It was a wonderful afternoon and all who participated showed much spirit and enthusiasm for this great event. This year we are very happy to announce that the Blue Willow School Community raised $775 for the Terry Fox Foundation. Thank you to all of our staff, students and parents for their participation and support. If you have not yet made your donation and wish to do so, please donate here http://www.terryfox.ca/BlueWillowPSWoodbridge. Remember any amount, no matter how small or large, is a great help to the foundation. The link will continue to be accessible until the winter break. A special thank you also goes to the staff who helped us monitor the walk and to the Terry Fox Committee for organizing the event.
Blue Willow, you are amazing!

Friday, 28 October 2016

REMINDER for Monday, October 31, 2016

Monday, October 31, 2016

For some families, Halloween is traditionally celebrated. In order to be inclusive at Blue Willow, we respect all families’ wishes and their traditions. For those wishing to participate, students may wear simple costumes on Monday, October 31, that are appropriate for school. Costumes must be comply with our school dress code and simple to put on. Students are not permitted to wear masks, and students may not bring costume accessories, such as replica or toy guns, knives, swords, etc. This is in accordance with the York Region District School Board’s Safe School Policy #668.0. Compliance to this policy is compulsory for students from JK to Grade 12. Failure to comply can result in a suspension from school. If you have any questions/concerns, please contact the school office.
In order to ensure the safety of all our students, please do not send food items or treats to share at school. Parent/Guardians are also reminded that we are an "allergen-safe" environment, and that all foods sent for your child(ren)'s consumption are nut-free.

Safety Tips for Children from York Regional Police

Halloween https://www.yrp.ca/en/crime-prevention/seasonal-safety-tips.asp

Don't let your kids wear masks. It can obstruct their view and they could hurt themselves
Use reflective items on dark clothing so they can be seen
Although tempting, remind kids not eat any candy before they get home so you can check it

Thursday, 20 October 2016

TIPS for Personal Safety

It’s always a good time to be Mindful about Student Safety.

The safety of our students is our first priority.

*** Drivers are reminded to adhere to all safety signs and ensure that vehicles do not block public access to school pathways and crosswalks.

SCHOOL SAFETY REMINDERS:

Many children bike or walk to school. Teach children safety while on the streets, especially younger ones.
Kids should be taught to walk on the sidewalk, not on the road, and to cross at intersections.
If they are riding a bike, they must wear a helmet at all times.
Children should cross the road at intersections and always cross with caution.
Kids should never wear headphones while riding a bike. They won't be able to hear car horns or warning shouts.

PERSONAL SAFETY FOR STUDENTS:

Here's what children need to know:

Their name, age, telephone number, address, city and province. This can be done through rhyme or song.
How to contact their parents at any time, by memorizing cell or work numbers.
How and under what circumstances to call 911.
To never approach or enter a stranger's vehicle. A responsible adult would never ask a child for directions or any other question for that matter.
Make sure they know they have a right to say "no" to an adult, especially when the adult is asking them to do something they have been taught is wrong or feels uncomfortable. Reminding children of this right is important because children are taught from a young age to respect adults.
To always tell parents where they will be and to never enter someone's home without their parent's permission.
If home alone, never admit it when answering the phone. Never answer a knock at the door or speak through it. Adults can be very persuasive. Teach your child to call you if there is a knock at the door and if they fear for their safety, teach them to call 911. Make sure they know that police officers are there to help them and would not get mad if it were a false alarm.
If they think they are being followed or are in danger they should run home or to a public place. If someone grabs them, they should try to get away, yelling and screaming while doing so.
It is important to play in safe areas, never take shortcuts and stick with a buddy whenever possible.

It is never too early or too late to teach children the importance of personal safety. Common sense, communication and consistency are the keys. Remind children to alert a responsible adult if something strange happens that makes them feel uncomfortable. Remember, crime prevention is everyone's responsibility.

For more information on this subject, visit www.yrp.ca.